JYP Entertainment Takes Legal Action Over Unauthorized Distribution of Stray Kids HAN’s “Back to Life”
JYP Entertainment is taking steps to protect the music of Stray Kids member HAN after discovering that one of his original tracks had allegedly been distributed without authorization under another artist's identity.
According to a report published by Sports Kyunghyang on October 9, 2026, the entertainment company has turned to the U.S. legal system to uncover the identity of the individual or organization responsible for the unauthorized release of HAN's song "Back to Life."
The track reportedly appeared on several major digital platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Apple Music, under the artist name "New Vibs." JYP Entertainment maintains that the distribution occurred without the necessary permission, raising concerns about music ownership and the protection of artists' creative work.
On September 4, JYP Entertainment submitted a legal application to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The company sought identifying information associated with an account operated through music distribution service Symphonic Distribution.
The requested information reportedly includes account registration details, contact information, payment records, and other relevant data that could help establish who was behind the release.
"Back to Life" holds particular significance because HAN contributed to both its songwriting and composition. The track was first introduced through the official Stray Kids YouTube channel on May 9, 2026, before receiving its official music release on June 11.
JYP had already raised concerns about the unauthorized distribution in May, ahead of the song's official release.
Symphonic Distribution, meanwhile, reportedly responded to the initial complaint by removing the disputed track from music platforms and closing the associated account. The distributor also indicated that it had not received additional communication from JYP following those actions.
The situation highlights a growing challenge in the global music business. As digital distribution services make it easier for independent creators to release music internationally, they also face the difficult task of ensuring that uploaded recordings belong to the individuals claiming ownership.
For K-pop artists such as HAN, whose creative contributions extend beyond performing to writing and producing music, protecting original compositions is especially important.
The case also demonstrates how international legal procedures can become part of protecting Korean music in a global digital marketplace. While the reported court application focuses on identifying the party responsible, it remains to be seen whether further legal action will follow.
As Stray Kids continues to connect with listeners around the world, the situation serves as a reminder that protecting artists' rights is an essential part of sustaining the creativity and integrity of the K-pop industry.
For fans, the controversy also brings renewed attention to HAN's artistic involvement in Stray Kids' music and the importance of supporting songs through official distribution channels.
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