South Korea’s National Library and key copyright agencies have formalized a collaborative framework to combat the illegal distribution of webtoons and web novels, effective March 5, 2026. The agreement, signed between the National Library of Korea, the Korea Copyright Commission, and the Korea Copyright Protection Agency, centers on utilizing the National Standard Content Identifier (UCI) to track and curtail unauthorized online content.
The partnership aims to strengthen protections for creators’ rights and foster a more sustainable ecosystem for digital comics and serialized fiction. According to a statement released by the National Library, the UCI system will be instrumental in identifying and tracing instances of illegal distribution. National Library Director Kim Hee-seop stated that the UCI’s implementation, beginning in September of last year, is intended to contribute to a healthy content creation and distribution environment.
The agreement outlines a commitment to practical cooperation, including the establishment of a joint working group to ensure effective implementation of the collaborative measures. The agencies will operate together to enhance the tracking of illicit content, support legal avenues for content access, and bolster protections for intellectual property rights.
The Korea Copyright Commission and the Korea Copyright Protection Agency will provide expertise and support in areas such as copyright education, legal consultation, and dispute resolution. This collaboration builds on a separate agreement between the Korea Copyright Commission and the Gyeonggi Content Promotion Agency, finalized in October 2025, which also focused on protecting the rights of content creators, and businesses. That earlier agreement emphasized copyright education, legal counsel, and contract advisory services, alongside efforts to promote copyright registration and address disputes.
The National Library’s initiative comes as the popularity of webtoons and web novels continues to surge, both domestically and internationally, creating a growing need for robust copyright protection mechanisms. The UCI system is positioned as a key tool in addressing the challenges posed by widespread digital piracy and ensuring fair compensation for content creators.
The agencies have not yet announced specific details regarding the operational procedures of the joint working group or the timeline for full implementation of the UCI-based tracking system. Further details are expected to be released following the initial meeting of the working group.
