Korean hip-hop label Amoeba Culture’s sales in the domestic music market in 2015 topped those of JYP, one of the country’s de facto three leading record labels.

The other two major labels, YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment, clinched first and second in local music sales, respectively, according to local Gaon Chart data.

Excluding music sales of Korean conglomerate CJ Entertainment at No. 3 -- the group mostly gained profit via TV competition shows such as “Show Me The Money” and “Unpretty Rap Star” -- Amoeba Culture followed YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment.

Dynamic Duo (OSEN)

Amoeba Culture, founded in 2006 by members of Korean hip-hop group Dynamic Duo, houses named artists including Primary, Zion.T and Crush.

Three songs by 26-year-old singer and producer Zion.T were included in the top 20 list in domestic market sales. His singles “Eat,” “Yanghwa BRDG” and “Just,” featuring the label’s artist Crush, were ranked fifth, 13th and 16th, respectively. The musician joined the label in 2012.

Zion.T. (left) and Crush (OSEN)

“Last year marked the 10th anniversary of the label’s foundation, and all the artists released an album to celebrate” said Ko Kyeong-min, chief executive officer of the hip-hop label. “I think that’s the reason behind it (the huge profit from music sales).”

By Son Ji-hyoung (json@heraldcorp.com)