NetEase Cloud Music has reached a preliminary agreement with SM Entertainment to continue streaming their catalog beyond the January 31st deadline, while both companies engage in extended negotiations for a long-term deal.

The agreement comes after Cloud Music's recent warning about a possible non-renewal, which prompted significant fan support on Chinese social media platform Weibo. SM Entertainment maintains a strong presence in China, with over 1.5 million followers on their main Weibo profile and millions more following individual acts like Aespa and Red Velvet.

This development is particularly significant for Cloud Music, which secured partnerships with other major K-pop companies in 2024, including Kakao Entertainment and JYP Entertainment. The streaming service competes directly with Tencent Music, which recently finalized a deal with Galaxy Corporation.

The Chinese music market has become increasingly important for K-pop, with streaming services offering both music access and album sales opportunities. While the duration of the temporary extension remains unspecified, both companies are actively working toward a long-term agreement.

This temporary arrangement ensures that Chinese fans will maintain access to SM Entertainment's catalog while negotiations continue. The outcome of these talks will likely impact the broader landscape of K-pop distribution in China's expanding music market.

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