Since its inception, Melon Music has been unparalleled as a music store and streaming service in South Korea. No platform challenged the giant from 2004 until 2018, as stated on the data tracker Nielsen Koreanclick. The platform owned 50% of the market. However, Melon Music was later threatened and dethroned by YouTube Music.
In a report by The Korea Times, Mobile Index reported that YouTube Music held the third-largest market share in Korea. YouTube Music has a market share of 19.22 percent, second to Melon with 37.28 percent.
YouTube Music, particularly its premium service, is a paid membership that allows users to watch clips without advertisements.
Users are fond of the sound quality and music recommendation system. YouTube also has a wide range of live performances, including song covers. They point out that these aren’t widely available on giant platforms, including Melon Music.
Despite YouTube Music’s rise, the service is extremely lacking with the locals. Music videos do not provide Korean translations. Even K-pop songs do not have lyrics.
In response to this, Melon Music is about to enhance its recommendation system. How? Through basing it on user data.
With people claiming that Melon Music might not be mirroring the majority’s opinion, the market and fandoms continue to uphold its dominance despite the existence of YouTube Music. Melon Music is famous for its flexibility in terms of streaming culture, and its next moves to solidify its place will be eyed by many.
