Blockchain applications in music explored in South Korean study

South Korean researchers have conducted a unique study exploring the potential applications of blockchain technology in the music industry. Yujun Park and Seongcheol Kim interviewed 16 South Korean artists to assess their views on blockchain’s impact. The preliminary study revealed that most artists believe blockchain can provide new revenue streams through non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. Additionally, artists highlighted the utility of blockchain in protecting copyrights and intellectual property. However, the study also addressed concerns artists had about the long-term viability of blockchain in the music industry, as well as the difficulty of blockchain-based platforms competing with established industry giants. South Korea has shown great enthusiasm for blockchain technology, implementing it in various sectors, including health, finance, tourism, and supply chain. While blockchain is making waves in the music industry, it is not the only emerging technology making an impact. Artificial intelligence (AI) has also left its mark, with an increase in AI-generated songs resembling the styles and voices of original artists. However, copyright violations have become a concern, leading some musicians to hide their use of AI tools to avoid backlash from their fanbase.