Kakao Entertainment Plans 'Berriz' Platform to Challenge Weverse in 2025

Kakao Entertainment Plans 'Berriz' Platform to Challenge Weverse in 2025

By Marcus Hartley

February 4, 2025 at 10:45 PM

Kakao Entertainment is preparing to launch a new superfan platform called Berriz in 2025, positioning it as a direct competitor to Hybe's Weverse. The platform aims to expand beyond K-pop and target global markets.

K-pop group Aespa members smiling

K-pop group Aespa members smiling

Key Details About Berriz:

  • Will complement existing Lysn and Bubble services
  • Launch planned for late 2025
  • Aims to serve markets beyond music industry
  • Will likely feature exclusive content from established artists
  • May showcase new SM Entertainment boy group debuting in 2025

Current Market Context:

  • Weverse achieved nearly 20% year-over-year user growth in 2024
  • Features major artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and Gracie Abrams
  • SM artists (including Red Velvet and Aespa) remain on Weverse despite Kakao-Hybe rivalry

Industry Trend Analysis:

  • Major companies increasingly focusing on superfan monetization
  • Spotify developing "Deluxe" tier
  • Warner Music planning own superfan app launch
  • Startups like Mellomanic, FanCircles, TRAX, and Tune.fm secured significant funding in 2024

NMPA logo against black

NMPA logo against black

The development of Berriz reflects the growing importance of direct-to-fan platforms in the music industry, as companies seek new revenue streams and deeper fan engagement opportunities.

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