Changing Trend
As streaming music services are growing and taking root in the local online music service market, the distribution channel structure of digital music is rapidly changing.
According to industry sources on Nov. 11, new streaming music services like Milk, KakaoMusic, and BEAT are very popular among users, in addition to existing online music services such as Melon, Sorobada, and Bugs Music.
New streaming music services allow people to listen to music whenever they want, rather than downloading digital music files. Streaming music services are also available at online music sites, but it is necessary to store digital music files. New streaming music services are free, and it is possible to share music with friends using social networking services.
Samsung's music service app Milk has already surpassed 1.7 million downloads as of late October, after its launch at the end of September. KakaoMusic has also exceeded 14 million downloads as of July of this year after its release in September of last year. Free streaming Internet radio service BEAT showcased by mobile music app developer Beatpacking Company is drawing a lot of attention as well, since it has crossed the million download mark only seven months after its introduction to the market.
An official at the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) said, “The popularity of streaming music services is desirable, in that users can enjoy digital music in a more diverse way.” The official added, “New music services and new kinds of music will emerge in the future, as people are expected to consume digital music, instead of store it.”