Copyright Fee Dispute Over Return Of Yi Sun-sin’s Remains
A Copyright Dispute In Process
A copyright dispute against the Bank of Korea by the family of Jang Woo-sung, a Korean artist who painted the image of Yi Sun-sin for the 100-won coin, will come to an end next month after more than three years of legal battles.
The Painter Jang Family’s Stance
The Jang family is demanding the return of the image, along with 40 years of royalties, and the outcome of the trial is expected to have a significant social impact, as it could lead to a complete replacement of the image on the coin, as well as a copyright dispute over the image used on other banknotes.
In October 2021, Mr. Jang, the bereaved family of Painter Jang, who painted the portrait of Yi Sun-sin for the 100-won coin, filed a civil lawsuit. The family is actively seeking compensation for the copyright infringement of Jang’s image of Yi Sun-sin on the 500 won coins used from 1973 to 1993 and the 100 won coins used from 1983 to the present.
The Bank of Korea’s Stance
However, the Bank of Korea is firm in its stance that it is fair use with the painter’s permission. An official from the Bank of Korea said, “In 1975, a appropriate amount of 1.5 million won was paid for the production of the Yi Sun-sin coin, which is not a small amount considering the cost of living at the time. The Bank of Korea produces the coins based on the standard coins and uses them as designs, but the copyright of the coins is owned by the Bank of Korea, so there is no problem.”
This article was written and summarized based on an exclusive investigation by Asia Economic. It’s an interesting article, and we’ll keep you posted as the first phase of the civil case is scheduled to be heard on October 13, 2023. ????????
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