CHILD’S PLAY

American Composer Slapped Down in His Plagiarism Battle for Most Popular Video on YouTube

The defendant said its version was adapted from a decades-old North American children’s chant in the public domain.

South Korea’s Supreme Court has ruled that the global kids’ hit Baby Shark was not plagiarized, shutting down a years-long copyright fight by U.S. composer Johnny Only. Only—real name Jonathan Wright—claimed the 2015 viral sensation by South Korean startup SmartStudy ripped off his own 2011 release, copying its bassline and rhythm. He sought 30 million won ($21,700) in damages. But SmartStudy, now The Pinkfong Company, said its version was adapted from a decades-old North American children’s chant in the public domain. On Thursday, the company said the decision confirmed Baby Shark’s origins as “a traditional singalong chant.” The Baby Shark Dance video is the most viewed clip on YouTube, with over 16 billion plays—more than twice Despacito by Justin Bieber, and far ahead of Wheels on the Bus. Only’s lawsuit was first dismissed in 2021 for lack of evidence, a ruling upheld in 2023. The Supreme Court’s decision affirms those judgments, ending the case.