MTVNI Pacts with South Korea’s The Chosunilbo

HONG KONG/SEOUL/SINGAPORE: The Chosunilbo, a leading daily newspaper company in South Korea, has plans to launch a new general-entertainment cable channel in the region, and has tapped MTV Networks International (MTVNI) to collaborate on live events, production, licensing and international distribution for the service.

MTVNI and The Chosunilbo intend to co-produce a music-based launch event showcasing international and Korean artists. This event will potentially be simulcast as part of the MTV World Stage franchise. The companies will also explore MTV Networks representing the channel and its original programming to other territories via cable and satellite platforms and international program sales. MTVNI and The Chosunilbo will collaborate on co-productions and the development of new formats in scripted and non-scripted programming produced in Korea and brought into other territories. The partnership also allows for the creation of music-based programming to be shared across MTV’s channels internationally, and MTV Networks licensed content may also be included in the channel’s programming schedule.

The new general-entertainment cable channel is pending the approval of a broadcasting license from The Korea Communication Commission by the end of 2010. If successful, The Chosunilbo plans to launch the channel in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Robert Bakish, the president of MTV Networks International, commented, “We are confident that Chosunilbo’s application for the broadcasting license will be successful and in turn this strategic alliance will lead MTV Networks to unprecedented creative and business opportunities.” Bakish continued, “Chosunilbo’s 90-year history and dominance in the Korean media market makes them a logical and strong partner. We are hopeful that this alliance will lead to the creation of a channel that not only features some of the very best of MTV and Nickelodeon content but whose local content resonates with audiences in markets where demand for Korean-produced content is high.”

“Our plans to launch a new general entertainment channel in Korea represent our commitment to bring new perspectives and fresh programming to Korean audiences and to export Korean content globally. In this effort, we have set out to align ourselves with world leaders in their respective fields,” added Ken Choi, the executive VP of international business at The Chosunilbo. “MTV Networks brings expertise in creating youth-orientated programming, brand strength and production expertise into the mix, and with this strategic partnership I’m confident that we will create a channel that not only revolutionizes the Korean marketplace but also brings a unique offering to the international television landscape.”