YouTube Royalties: Users Can Now Directly Claim Residual Payments Online!

The Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) has officially launched an online claim system, allowing rights holders to directly check and claim residual royalties generated on YouTube.

Residual royalties from YouTube refer to copyright fees that are undistributed because the rights holder is unidentified or because a claim was not filed with Google (the operator of YouTube) within two years of the fee's generation. KOMCA has been managing approximately 73.6 billion KRW in residual royalties generated in Korea from Q3 2016 to Q2 2022. This new online system provides a channel for all rights holders, regardless of their membership status, to claim these royalties.

The system is designed for a seamless process, from checking usage history to submitting a claim. Users can search for their works based on how they were used on YouTube. For 'Music' content, where usage is clearly identified through Google's Content ID system, users can search by copyright information. For 'Non-Music' content, where music might not be directly identifiable, searches can be made using video titles and other video information.

After selecting the usage details they wish to claim, rights holders will proceed with entering applicant information, confirming claim details, uploading necessary documents (like identification), and completing electronic signature and identity verification. The entire process is accessible on both PC and mobile devices.

To facilitate the process, KOMCA will operate a '集中申請期間' (Intensive Application Period) until January 2026, offering support for smoother claim submissions. Following this period, claim reviews will commence, with real-time updates on the examination progress available within the system. Payments will be processed sequentially for confirmed claims, and a notification function will be provided upon payment.

A KOMCA representative stated, "We have designed the system for users to swiftly and accurately check usage details and submit claims. We have also meticulously prepared the interface and guidance materials for smooth operation." They added, "We will continuously strengthen our support system to ensure all rights holders receive fair compensation." Further details can be found on the claim system website at residual-claim.komca.or.kr.

Korean netizens expressed enthusiasm, with comments like "Wow, can I finally claim mine too?", "Why didn't they do this sooner?", and "I made some money on YouTube, I should try applying." The general sentiment shows anticipation for using the new system.