'G-Dragon' No More? YG Receives Backlash for Extending Idol's Trademark Name Amid Contract Expiration

By Riely Miller Oct 13, 2023

YG Entertainment is under fire for extending the "G-Dragon" trademark amid the idol's contract expiration.

Here's what people are saying.

Will Idol Be Unable to Use 'G-Dragon' Once He Leaves YG Entertainment?

On October 12, a discussion was sparked by angry VIPs (BIGBANG's fandom), who ranted against YG Entertainment's decision to extend the "G-Dragon" trademark.

Earlier, on June 6, YG released an official statement announcing the contract expiration of G-Dragon. The company assured everyone that even though his contract had already expired, discussions regarding his future activities were also being processed.

Read their full statement below:

"The exclusive contract of G-Dragon with us has now expired, but we are discussing a separate contract that will allow him to promote his other activities, advertisements, and more.

Additional contracts will be discussed with G-Dragon if he wants to resume his music activities. We will not hesitate in providing support for this decision."

Following this, speculations of G-Dragon joining Warner Music arose across online communities. This was due to the idol's appearance at 'Warner Records' office, located in Los Angeles, California.

Moreover, in one photo posted on his Instagram, it featured an electronic signage saying, "Welcome G-Dragon," raising the curiosity of fans.

On October 12, Korean news outlets reported that YG had extended the trademark rights for the idol's "G-Dragon" name. The trademark of "G-Dragon" was originally arranged in February 2003, and was reportedly valid for a total of 10 years.

In February 2013, the name was renewed by YG Entertainment, extending its validity until September 2023.

When YG renewed the trademark for another decade on October 12, this meant that the "G-Dragon" name would now belong to the company, and the idol would be unable to use "G-Dragon" if he was to transfer and promote under a different agency.

Sources also revealed an expert opinion from lawyer and Yonsei University professor Park Soo Jo, who stated G-Dragon might object to this decision and claim ownership.

"The renewal seems simple. But there's also the concern that G-Dragon might file an objection and claim ownership, just like in previous situations.

If these terms from YG Entertainment were accepted by G-Dragon, he could also retrieve trademark registration easily. It requires the close relationship the agency and G-Dragon have.

Contrarily, YG might have prepared well to make sure that G-Dragon cannot obtain the trademark through a preceding contract."

Netizens were enraged with the agency for its newest update regarding G-Dragon's trademark name. Some pointed out how different things are now in K-pop, compared to the time when the 'Big 3' were all at their peaks.

"This happened just because GD is leaving YG. They're now making it impossible for him to continue using G-Dragon."

"That f**king company. GD propelled YG into the 'Big 3' in his high school age and developed the company. He led it to go No. 1 in sales, build 2 buildings, and dominate in the high fashion industry. Are they insane?"

"Did Yang Hyunsuk drop his head? Does he want to move back to the 2nd floor of this building after 16 years?

"I know that he won't lose everything since he is still Kwon Jiyong, but this is annoying."

"The entire nation already knows him as Kwon Jiyong, but the brand name 'G-Dragon' is something he devoted his entire life to creating, so I'm angry that YG is taking it away from him."

"As someone who saw SM, YG, and JYP peak, it's so strange seeing how things are so much different now."

"Watching this company crash and burn in real time is satisfying."