Kakao Competing Against Weverse With New Fandom Platform Triggers Divided Reactions

It looks like Kakao is gearing up to compete with Weverse, the largest fandom platform in Korea. They recently revealed that they are creating a service where global fans can consume and communicate with K-Culture artists.

Many believe that they can compete as they also own SM Entertainment.

On January 6, it was revealed that Kakao Entertainment conducted an internal test on the global fandom platform Berriz. They are developing it and intend to launch it in the first half of this year. Last month, they also applied for trademark rights at the Korean and U.S. patent offices.

Berriz will introduce services where artists can share live broadcasts, performances, videos, posts, and more with fans. These services include commerce functions such as selling products using the artist’s IP. A Kakao Entertainment official stated, “We are preparing the service, but the specific release date has not been confirmed.”

A pro to this is that Kakao can utilize artists from entertainment companies under the label, including SM, Starship, EDAM, and more. However, legal risks related to SM regarding collaborating with the artists could become an obstacle. An industry insider stated, “The global fandom market is still growing, and we need the ability to consistently recruit artists to create different services.”

News of a new fandom platform garnered a divided response from fans.

• “Please make this happen…I hate Weverse I can’t use it…”
• “As long as it’s not Weverse I’m fine. I just need to leave Weverse, please.”
• “Please make the server better than Kwangya.”

While many were fine with moving platforms, others were tired of it.

• “I’m not lying when I say we move platforms once every year.”
• “Stop moving around, you crazy people.”
• “But honestly, I think Weverse is good. It’s better than Lysn and Kwangya Club.”

What are your thoughts on this?