Spotify Launches Free Streaming Service in South Korea to Boost Local Engagement

Spotify has officially launched its free streaming service in South Korea, aiming to expand its user base significantly. This development, announced on Thursday, signifies the company's commitment to providing more options for listeners in the region.

The freemium model utilized by the platform combines both a limited, ad-supported service and a full premium subscription option. This approach allows users to engage with content while choosing to upgrade for a more enhanced experience without interruptions.

According to Spotify, this initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between global audiences and the vibrant music scene in Korea, particularly K-pop. Listeners in South Korea can create free accounts, gaining access to a wide array of playlists and podcasts, along with personalized daily mixes. There is also the potential for users to switch to a premium experience that offers ad-free listening.

Advertising on Spotify's free tier presents an opportunity for brands to effectively reach audiences, as ads on this platform reportedly receive double the engagement compared to those on social media channels worldwide. This makes Spotify an attractive venue for advertisers looking to maximize their impact.

Since launching services in South Korea in 2021, the platform has seen impressive growth, with average monthly streams of local artists surpassing 5.8 billion. This success illustrates the increasing popularity of Spotify within the Korean music landscape.