IVE Trademark dispute with STARSHIP became a heated public issue as the agency faced criticism for its legal filing. The controversy centered on a petition for a trademark cancellation trial against IVE Leather Goods, a small workshop with prior registrations. STARSHIP has since withdrawn the filing, apologized to the public, and promised stronger oversight to prevent future conflicts.
STARSHIP Confronts Trademark Dispute Over IVE Name
On October 2, STARSHIP Entertainment released a formal statement on social media addressing the controversy over the IVE trademark dispute. The label explained that a legal agent filed a petition for a trademark cancellation trial without consulting STARSHIP beforehand. Once the agency learned about the filing, it immediately reviewed the legality and moved quickly to withdraw the petition before further escalation.
STARSHIP Issues Apology and Assures Greater Oversight
In its statement, STARSHIP apologized to fans and the public, admitting that the sudden legal move created unnecessary confusion. The agency emphasized that protecting its artists remains important, but so does respecting the rights and efforts of small business owners who have worked with dedication for many years. STARSHIP pledged to strengthen oversight and promised to prevent such disputes from resurfacing in the future.
IVE Leather Goods Challenges STARSHIP in Trademark Dispute
The controversy erupted when IVE Leather Goods revealed on September 30 that it had received a notice of petition for a trademark cancellation trial filed through STARSHIP. The workshop’s owner, identified only as Mr. A, explained that his business had been officially registered since 2015 and secured four separate trademarks by 2019. He pointed out that the group IVE debuted only in 2021, well after his registrations, and that his brand had already been showcased through public exhibitions and collaborations.
Personal Identity Intertwined With IVE Trademark Dispute
Mr. A also highlighted the personal meaning of the brand name. He shared that “IVE” is his English name and that the workshop continues a legacy passed down from his parents. Even if business operations pause temporarily, he believes preserving the brand remains essential. He warned that this case could affect other trademark holders who share the name, which is why he decided to publicize the developments for the sake of public interest.
Community Backlash Intensifies Against STARSHIP
The trademark dispute sparked heated discussion across Korean online communities, with more than 500 comments criticizing STARSHIP on the forum theqoo. Many argued that STARSHIP had no grounds to seek a cancellation trial, as IVE Leather Goods used the name first and worked in an entirely different industry. Others criticized the company’s aggressive tactics, insisting that dialogue should have preceded any legal filing. They reminded that entertainment companies, whose reputations rely heavily on public trust, risk long-term damage if they rush into litigation.
Industry Speculation Surrounding IVE and Trademark Dispute
Industry insiders speculated that STARSHIP may have sought to expand into merchandise using the IVE name. Reports suggested that the agency consulted a patent office, which may have advised filing the petition because of perceived non-use by IVE Leather Goods in recent years. Trademark law allows challenges if a registered mark has not been actively used for three consecutive years. However, critics argued that pushing a small independent workshop into legal confrontation with a major corporation was disproportionate and unnecessarily heavy-handed.
Resolution as STARSHIP Withdraws Petition
Ultimately, STARSHIP withdrew its petition, preventing the trademark dispute from intensifying further. Observers believe the agency recognized the potential reputational risk of continuing the case. For now, the conflict appears settled, at least temporarily, allowing both parties to move forward without extended legal confrontation. Meanwhile, IVE is preparing for its second world tour, “SHOW WHAT I AM,” scheduled from October 31 to November 2 at Seoul Olympic Gymnastics Arena, where fans will shift their focus back to music.
The IVE Trademark dispute began when STARSHIP filed a cancellation petition against IVE Leather Goods. Public backlash followed, and STARSHIP withdrew the case while promising stronger oversight.
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YES! Need IVE to keep this unique, elegant ‘noble lady’ concept forever. It’s their vibe! 👑✨