Disney Aligns with SK Telecom for Korean Channels

SEOUL/BURBANK: A joint venture between The Walt Disney Company’s Disney Channel International subsidiary and telco SK Telecom intends to roll out local-language Disney-branded channels in South Korea.

This is the first time that Disney is launching branded channels as a joint venture, with SK holding the 51-percent stake. The agreement calls for the roll out of Korean-language versions of Disney Channel and Playhouse Disney Channel in SD and HD on cable, DTH, IPTV and on-demand platforms, in spring 2011. The channels will air programming from the Disney library, as well as locally produced, Korean-language programming. The launch is contingent upon approval from the Korea Communications Commission.

"The joint venture with Disney carries significant meaning, especially considering the business environment nowadays where customers consume content not only through television, but through an array of devices, including mobile handsets, laptop computers and tablet PCs," said Man-won Jung, president and CEO of SK. "In the future, by forging a close strategic alliance with Disney, we hope to create more opportunities between the two parties.”

“South Korea is one of the most exciting digital media markets in the world," added Andy Bird, chairman of Walt Disney International. "Disney’s creativity and innovative content, combined with SK Telecom’s leading global expertise in digital media and telecommunications, present a unique offering that meets the growing consumer appetite for quality family entertainment where and when they want it."