Archive · 14 Aug 2025
Baby Shark Copyright Claim Dismissed by South Korean Court
An American composer, Johnny Only, sued a South Korean company called Pinkfong, claiming they stole his version of the song "Baby Shark."
But, the court said Johnny's version was too similar to the original children's song, and not unique enough to be copyrighted.
Since Pinkfong's version was based on a traditional song, the court sided with them, ending the six-year legal dispute.
Baby Shark became a massive hit, with billions of views online and merchandise globally.
The courts agreed that Pinkfong did not violate copyright laws, and the matter is now settled.
South Korea's Supreme Court dismissed a copyright claim by an American composer over the song "Baby Shark."
The composer, Jonathan Wright, claimed Pinkfong infringed on his version of the song.
The court upheld previous rulings that found Wright's version not sufficiently original for copyright.
Pinkfong's "Baby Shark" is based on a public domain folk tune.
The legal battle lasted six years, concerning a song that gained global popularity.
- Who
- The court ruled against American composer Jonathan Wright, also known as Johnny Only, and in favor of Pinkfong.
- What
- The South Korean Supreme Court dismissed a copyright claim regarding the song "Baby Shark."
- When
- The ruling came out on Thursday.
- Where
- South Korea
- Why
- The court found Wright's version of "Baby Shark" did not sufficiently differ from the original melody to qualify for copyright protection.
Jonathan Wright (Johnny Only)
Pinkfong
Copyright Infringement
Jonathan Wright (Johnny Only)
Wright believed Pinkfong infringed on his copyright.
Pinkfong
The court ruled in favor of Pinkfong based on the public domain status of the original folk tune.
- Plaintiff
- Jonathan Wright (Johnny Only)
- Defendant
- Pinkfong
- Claim
- Copyright infringement
- Amount of Claim
- 30 million won ($21,600)
- Ruling
- Dismissed, upholding lower court decisions
- Basis for Ruling
- Wright's version lacked sufficient originality
- Pinkfong's Revenue (H1 2025)
- 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million)