Is Wonyoung launching her own brand? The question arose after a cherry-themed Instagram account grabbed fans’ attention, and the name “FOREVER:CHERRY” appeared in the Korean trademark records under IVE’s member name, Jang Wonyoung. The timing led to speculation. Before the rumor got wild, Starship Entertainment stepped in to shut down that framing.
Starship Clarifies Jang Wonyoung “FOREVER:CHERRY” Trademark
An Instagram account named “FOREVER:CHERRY” was created on January 10 and quickly piqued curiosity. The account’s activity helped fuel speculation, especially as the trademark news surfaced.
The Korean Intellectual Property Database (KIPRIS) listed trademark applications for the name “FOREVER:CHERRY” (also in Korean) and a cherry-themed logo, covering about 30 categories, including cosmetics, essential oils, and electric toothbrushes.
In K-pop, a new concept, a new account, and a trademark often signal a new release. So many fans assumed Wonyoung was launching a brand until her agency cleared it up.
Starship’s Official Clarification
On January 28, 2026, Starship Entertainment clarified that the “FOREVER:CHERRY” trademark, associated with one of its artists, Jang Wonyoung, is a brand collaboration project, not her personal business venture.
Below is the official statement from Starship Entertainment.
Hello, this is Starship Entertainment.
We would like to explain the facts and share our position regarding the protection of our artist in relation to “Forever Cherry,” which has recently been mentioned in connection with our artist Jang Wonyoung.
“FOREVER:CHERRY” is a brand collaboration project and is not Jang Wonyoung’s personal business venture.
Regarding the recent trademark registration, the name deeply reflects the artist’s unique identity and image. Therefore, to prevent indiscriminate commercial exploitation and brand misuse by third parties that could occur after the project concludes, we reached an agreement with the brand to file the application under Jang Wonyoung’s name. The broad scope of the filing categories is also part of a preemptive measure to protect against misuse and abuse of the artist’s image through different business sectors.
This is a step taken with the artist’s rights as our top priority to fully preserve her unique value. We will continue to take every measure in order to protect our artists’ rights.
Thank you.
Why Starship Filed “FOREVER:CHERRY” Under Wonyoung’s Name
The agency explained that the trademark, which is filed under Wonyoung’s name, aims to protect her identity and image. This action is taken especially to prevent commercial misuse or brand abuse after the collaboration ends.
1. Protect the Persona, Not Just the Project
Starship filed the trademark under Wonyoung’s name to protect her as a key asset and maintain control after the collaboration. It also allows them to respond fast if someone tries to use her persona to sell fake goods across various sectors.
It points out that after the project ends, the copyright cannot be monetized by third parties. Therefore, registering a trademark in Wonyoung’s name is a risk-control measure for the future.
This approach matches Korea’s broader push to curb unauthorized commercial use of a celebrity’s identity. Korea strengthened rules to protect publicity-style rights through the Unfair Competition Act.
2. A Preemptive Fence, Not a Product List
In many collaborations, the difficult part isn’t the launch, but it’s after the contract ends. A concept can outlive a contract. And this also applies to copycats.
Global enforcement data shows that counterfeiters are increasingly pushing into high-risk everyday products, including cosmetics. They move fast as they follow trends through digital channels.
Counterfeit cosmetics are widespread. They pose a serious threat to consumer health as they bypass safety controls and are of substandard quality.
Broad trademark coverage can provide extensive protection and prevent legal loopholes. For example, two products with the same name can confuse and undermine consumer confidence. Therefore, broad trademark coverage is a risk management measure.
3. Recognition Is the Real Asset
The fruit-themed logo “FOREVER:CHERRY” is valuable because people link it to Wonyoung. That recognition drives strong demand. It can also attract fakes.
A trademark that covers many product categories makes it harder for others to claim the name later. If the filing covers only one or a few categories, copycats can use the same name on other items. When counterfeits show up, fans and casual buyers often get hit first.
A clear, broad trademark helps reduce confusion. It also makes it easier for buyers to spot official products and know where they come from.
What to Watch Next
Let’s wait for the official drop. For now, it’s safer to see this as name protection. A real launch will have official promotions and an official shop.
The Real Story Behind the Buzz
Starship clarifies that “FOREVER:CHERRY” is a brand collaboration to curb misuse and is filed under Wonyoung’s name to protect her image and persona in the future. For fans, this matters too. It helps reduce the spread of fake products and maintains trust. So clear protection helps everyone.
Do you like this approach, or do you think it creates more confusion? Comment below.
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