Kakao Entertainment to Launch Berriz, New K-pop Fan Platform, in 2025
Kakao Entertainment is developing a new superfan platform called Berriz, set to launch in 2025 as a direct competitor to Hybe's Weverse. The platform will work alongside existing services Lysn and Bubble, which currently allow fans to connect with SM Entertainment artists through messaging.
K-pop group Aespa members smiling
Key developments:
- Launch planned for late 2025
- Will expand beyond music into other entertainment sectors
- Targets global markets beyond South Korea
- May feature exclusive content from established artists
- Could coincide with debut of new SM boy band in second half of 2025
The platform's development comes amid growing competition in the superfan space:
- Hybe's Weverse saw 20% year-over-year user growth in 2024
- Weverse currently features global artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and Gracie Abrams
- SM artists (including Red Velvet and Aespa) remain on Weverse despite Kakao-Hybe rivalry
- Warner Music is developing its own superfan app for 2025
- Spotify introduced a "Deluxe" tier for superfans
- Multiple startups (Mellomanic, FanCircles, TRAX, Tune.fm) secured millions in funding during 2024
NMPA logo against black
This development reflects the broader industry trend of monetizing superfan engagement and expanding beyond traditional K-pop markets into global entertainment sectors.
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