HYBE was denied a copyright claim.
The term “BORAHAE” was first used by V during a fanmeeting in 2016.
Since then, the term has been commonly used by ARMYs and BTS and symbolizes the love between the group and its fans. The phrase has become a true symbol of BTS.
In September 2020, the LALALEES cosmetics brand attempted to register a “BORAHAE” trademark, an attempt which was welcomed by many critics, and which was refused.
In June 2021, HYBE then took steps to register the term “BORAHAE” in order to protect the rights of its company and its artists.
However, this request was denied by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO).
In explaining its refusal, KIPO said: “The term “BORAHAE” is a new word coined by BTS member V (Kim Tae Hyung) during a BTS fanmeeting on November 13, 2016. against principles of good faith.”
KIPO insists that the term “BORAHAE” cannot be copyrighted by anyone other than V, who is the inventor.
According to them, Big Hit Music and HYBE are just “companies having an employer-employee relationship with Kim Tae Hyung”.
KIPO adds: “The plaintiff (HYBE) is known to have filed for trademark rights to the term even knowing that it is a trademark used by V.”
Source: sportskhan
.