Kyusung Lee Attorney at Law

Hello, this is Attorney Kyusung Lee.

In recent years, many foreign streamers have become active in Korea.

Whether on YouTube, Twitch, or AfreecaTV, many are building large fan bases — but some later face serious issues with MCN contracts.

A common scenario is that a streamer signs a Korean-language contract without fully understanding it, only to face disputes over revenue sharing or content rights later on.

Today, I’ll explain the key clauses every foreign streamer must understand before signing an MCN contract in Korea.

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What Is an MCN Contract?

An MCN (Multi-Channel Network) is a partner company that supports streamers or creators in producing and monetizing content.

They may help with content planning, advertising partnerships, and channel management — and in return, they receive a share of the revenue.

Legally, an MCN contract combines features of a mandate (agency agreement) and a joint business or exclusive partnership agreement.

That means the streamer retains creative freedom but shares revenue and business rights with the MCN.

Because of that structure, every clause in the contract can directly affect who owns what and who gets paid how much.

Core Clauses Foreign Streamers Must Understand

(1) Clear Revenue-Sharing Structure

The heart of any MCN agreement is how the money is divided.

For instance, if YouTube revenue totals KRW 1,000,000, does the split apply before or after platform fees are deducted? The difference can significantly affect your actual income.

Your contract should specify:

• The settlement reference date
• Which party bears fees and taxes
• The payment method and schedule

(2) Rights Over Likeness and Content

MCNs often use a streamer’s image, voice, nickname, or videos for promotion.

If the contract allows the MCN to use such materials “even after termination,” your face or videos could appear in ads long after you leave.

That can raise copyright and personality-right issues.

Always limit the MCN’s use of your content to the contract period and require written consent for any post-termination use.

(3) Contract Duration and Termination Rights

Some MCNs ask for long-term contracts (3 years or more), claiming it’s to recover their initial investment.

But if they fail to deliver promised support or your income doesn’t improve, you might be stuck in an unfavorable deal.

Include a clause that allows you to terminate the agreement if the MCN fails to meet its obligations within a specified period, and make sure penalties or termination fees are not excessive.

(4) Governing Law and Jurisdiction

For foreign streamers, this clause at the end of the contract is crucial.

Most MCN contracts say they are governed by Korean law and subject to Seoul Central District Court.

If you’re not familiar with Korean legal procedures, this can put you at a disadvantage in disputes.

Always request an English translation and have the contract reviewed by a lawyer fluent in both Korean and international law before signing.

How to Respond When an MCN Dispute Arises

Disputes commonly involve:

• Unpaid or underpaid revenue shares
• Unilateral contract termination
• Unauthorized use of content

In such cases, take the following steps:

1. Review the contract and organize facts based on written clauses.
2. Send a formal demand letter (contents-certified mail) outlining the breach and your requests.
3. If the issue persists, pursue a civil lawsuit or injunction to secure accounting records or stop unauthorized content use.

Even as a foreign national, you can appoint a lawyer to handle most of these procedures. However, depending on your visa status and notification requirements, you may need to confirm certain steps in person.

Before You Sign: The 3 Essential Checks

Since an MCN relationship is not just “promotion support” but a business partnership, confirm at least these three points before signing:

• Are revenue-sharing and accounting standards clearly defined?
• Is the use of your content after termination explicitly limited?
• Are termination reasons and procedures reasonable and balanced?

Although the Korea Communications Commission has issued a recommended standard MCN contract, in practice each company uses its own version — often heavily modified.

That’s why careful review is essential, especially for foreign streamers who may miss subtle but critical legal terms due to the language barrier.

For foreign creators working in Korea, having a solid legal foundation is key to maintaining a stable and profitable career.

An MCN contract is not just a collaboration agreement — it’s a business contract. One thorough legal review before signing could be the difference between protecting or losing your income and rights.

If you’d like legal advice on your current or proposed MCN contract, please don’t hesitate to contact Attorney Kyusung Lee for a personalized consultation.

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Attorney Kyusung Lee  |  http://www.kyusunglee.com  |  kyusungii@gmail.com