Billboard Steps In Asia With The Launch Of Billboard Korea For All Things Korean

The American music and entertainment giant, Billboard, is now stepping its toes into Korea. On January 13, it was announced that Billboard magazine is launching ‘Billboard Korea’ in South Korea. With this launch, the music giant will be expanding into the growing Asian market.

After the launch announcement, Billboard later announced that the inaugural issue would be titled – ‘BillboardK Vol.1’. They mentioned that it will be published in June and that would be the first issue of the Korean vertical. Previously, the giant had tried to establish Billboard Korea in 2009 and 2017 but the operations were not successful. The American brand is held under Penske Media Corporation and the same brand will be working on Billboard Korea.

“At a time when K-artists and K-pop enjoy high esteem worldwide, 'Billboard Korea' aims to act as an ambassador, promoting not just K-pop, but also K-fashion, K-beauty, and K-food - the various aspects of K-culture,” said Yuna Kim, the publisher of Billboard Korea.

Mike Van, the representative of Billboard headquarters, said, "We are delighted to announce our expansion into Korea. Billboard has long celebrated the significant contributions Korean music has made across our platform. This expansion is a significant milestone for our brand and underscores our commitment to amplify the voices and talents that shape the vibrant Korean music scene."

Reacting to the news, one fan said, “bts paved the way too much cuz what you mean billboard Korea charts coming soon.” Another fan wrote, “All my money is on jungkook and Jennie.” While a third fan mentioned, “Oh jin is coming to top the chartsss.”

The relaunch of Billboard Korea under Penske Media Corporation in 2020 caught the attention of K-pop fans. Ahead of the publication of the magazine, it has been reported that the brand will kickstart a major launch promotion by starting the official websites and building a social media presence in April and May.