Did you know? Being successful in the online industry actually has a dark side. Naver WEBTOON, the platform that gave the world a new way to read comics, is now fighting a battle most readers never see. It’s a fight that goes far beyond likes, streams, or views. It’s about protecting the very stories that brought millions of people together in the first place. This is a story of Naver WEBTOON as the first Korean webcomics company to publicly announce its utmost dedication against digital piracy, by joining ACE.
Naver WEBTOON: Fighting Global Digital Piracy as First Korean ACE Member
In March 2025, Naver WEBTOON became the first Korean-founded and first webcomic company to join the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE)—the world’s top anti-piracy coalition. While that might sound like a corporate move, it’s actually deeply personal. For creators. For fans. And for the future of Korean storytelling.
You know the feeling when you find a new WEBTOON series, binge through the chapters, get completely obsessed with the characters, and maybe even start imagining a K-drama adaptation. And yet, behind that addictive content is actually a creator working long hours, taking creative risks, and hoping their story will connect.
Now imagine that same story showing up on a shady site. No credit. No context. Poorly translated. Monetized by someone who had nothing to do with its creation. Yes, it’s heartbreaking, especially if you’re the creator yourself.
This is the reality of digital piracy, and it’s spreading faster than most people realize. That is why, with this new brilliant move of joining ACE, Naver WEBTOON has basically sent a warning shot to digital pirates around the world. The Korean webcomics company is now ready to stand at the frontline of the global fight against digital piracy
“Webcomics have transformed entertainment and fandom around the world.
We’re proud to continue to protect creators and raise global awareness of the seriousness of illegal distribution.”
Junkoo Kim, Founder & CEO of WEBTOON Entertainment.
The Real Cost of Digital Piracy: It’s Not Just Money
It’s easy to think of piracy as a minor issue. We all think that exposure is good, right? And who doesn’t like free stuff coming to you at lightning speed? Who cares about accurate translation as long as we can read all the chapters as soon as they’re out right now?
However, the reality is, piracy affects more than just stolen views; it gradually undermines the whole ecosystem that nurtures our beloved webcomic creators.
Here’s what most people don’t see: Pirated content affects licensing deals, delays official translations, disrupts launch plans for adaptations, and messes with the data that platforms rely on to understand global demand. It’s not just unfair. It is extremely harmful, especially when Korean webcomics are no longer just “online comics” today. They’re now the blue-chip entertainment IPs fueling everything from streaming hits to merchandise, games, and drama series.
Moreover, the worst part is that most readers don’t even realize they’re consuming pirated content. The platforms look sleek with mouthwatering free access. But underneath everything is an ecosystem built on theft—one that undermines the very industry fans claim to love.
ACE: the Global Watchdog Against Digital Piracy
Why choose ACE, and why act now?
ACE is far from a mere observer. Supported by the Motion Picture Association, it features industry giants such as Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Warner Bros., and Apple TV+. Their actions go beyond sending warning emails. Instead, they actively shut down illegal platforms, file lawsuits, and collaborate closely with law enforcement internationally.
By partnering with ACE, Naver WEBTOON is not only safeguarding its own content but also setting a higher standard for how Korean companies uphold creative intellectual property on a global scale. It asserts that webcomics warrant the same level of protection and respect as blockbuster films and AAA games.
“Our coalition is vigilant from Korea to California and everywhere in between.”
Charles Rivkin, ACE Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association.
Naver WEBTOON x ACE Partnership: A Promising Future for K-Content
This partnership between Naver WEBTOON and ACE represents an exciting transformation for South Korea’s creative sectors.
For creators, it opens the door to a safer and more sustainable career path without having to worry about digital piracy of their creations. Meanwhile, for K-content studios, it boosts confidence in the intellectual property created from these creators’ webtoons. Therefore, fans can then enjoy the comforting assurance that their beloved stories will continue, and creators will finally receive the appreciation they truly deserve.
And most importantly, this sends a clear message to potential pirates: these cherished narratives are now protected, with vigilant eyes watching over them.
Naver WEBTOON x ACE: What Comes Next for the Fight Against Digital Piracy?
Korean webcomics have now become the main influencers that shape the direction of global pop culture. However, to continue this growth, they require protection, infrastructure, and solidarity.
Therefore, by teaming up with ACE, Naver WEBTOON is making a strong commitment to not just create amazing stories, but also to safeguard them from digital piracy so everyone can enjoy with its full potential.
And you, our wonderful readers, have an important part to play too!
Show your support for what you love by reading on official platforms like Naver WEBTOON, Wattpad, and LINE MANGA. And if you come across any pirated content, please report it.
Let’s spread stories in the right way! In this wonderfully connected world of storytelling, it’s even more important to protect the original creators’ work.
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