KT, South Korea's No. 2 mobile operator, has released an app, dubbed "Genie K-pop," in 45 countries, including the United States, France, India, Singapore, Germany, Russia, Spain, Brazil and Australia.
Android users can download the app free of charge at Google Play Store, KT said in a press release on Jan. 15.
KT launched the service in South Korea nine months ago with KMP Holdings, the distributor for entertainment agencies such as SM Entertainment, YG, JYP, Media Line, Star Empire, Union Can and Music Factory.
The telecom giant plans to launch the app in 10 other countries - Belgium, Canada, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey and Britain, according to the press release.
KT said it raised royalty fees for artists to 70 percent, a move that it believes will propel a new trend in South Korea's music industry.
"Genie K-pop" will provide the same service as what users in South Korea are experiencing, offering free full-track previews up to three times per song, and exclusive features and content on South Korean stars, said Kate Kim, a spokeswoman for KT.
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