Comedian Kim Junhyun Joins Korean Musicians Association... Growing Trend of Comedians Securing 'Music Performer' Rights

by Lee Yiseul

Published 14 Apr.2026 17:03(KST)

Yoo Jaesuk, Kim Sook, and Yang Sehyung Are Also Registered Members

(From left) Composer Youngsoo Cho, Comedian Junhyun Kim. Provided by the Federation of Musical Artists

Comedian Kim Junhyun has officially joined the Korean Musicians Association as a member.

The association announced on April 14 that Kim Junhyun, who is currently active with the project band "Amutda Band," completed his membership registration on April 13. His membership was made possible at the recommendation of his bandmate, composer Youngsoo Cho.

Kim Junhyun will now be protected for neighboring rights related to broadcasting and platform music usage compensation arising from his recent digital single activities.

The Korean Musicians Association is the only copyright trust management organization in South Korea that manages the rights of music performers, including singers and instrumentalists. Currently, comedians such as Yoo Jaesuk, Kim Sook, Cho Hyeryun, Hong Hyunhee, Yoon Hyungbin, Yang Sehyung, and Yoo Seyoon are members.

The association stated, "Cases where groups define their musical identity through group activities, like Celeb Five, are on the rise," and added, "With the expansion of music streaming and global online video services (OTT), the ways in which music is used have diversified."

Seungmin Kim, Executive Director of the association, said, "The increasing number of inquiries from comedians about joining reflects the 'borderless' era in which the boundaries of popular culture are breaking down. As the awareness of performers' rights spreads from actors to comedians, we will work to further strengthen the foundation for fair compensation."