Tiny Desk Concert Scores First Adaptation

NPR has scored the first-ever international format adaptation for its Tiny Desk Concert series, with Tiny Desk Korea set to debut on LG U+ in August.

Something Special will develop and expand the Tiny Desk Korea series and brand. Much like the original series, the Korean version will spotlight emerging and established artists with authentic performances.

All of the Tiny Desk Korea performances will be filmed, produced and aired in South Korea on the LG U+-owned platforms.

“NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert has grown to become the preeminent music series for the 21st century,” said Keith Jenkins, VP for visual and music strategy for NPR. “Our style mixes a public-media sensibility with the expert curation of NPR Music’s editorial staff. The result has been an amazing array of musical performances that challenge both the artists and the audience, breathing new life into music already known or recently discovered. I’m thrilled that our partners at LG U+ will bring their reverence for this aesthetic directly to music lovers in South Korea.”

“We are proud to work with LG U+ and Something Special to extend the beloved brand of Tiny Desk Concert to new audiences and new formats—and to keep evolving creatively and inclusively for the benefit of our audiences,” added Gordon Synn, senior director of business partnerships for NPR.

Sangjin Lee, VP of content IP business for LG U+, said, “LG U+ is extremely pleased to launch Tiny Desk Korea with NPR, offering us a great opportunity to continue the global expansion of K-pop music. We are honored to be entrusted by NPR to carry out their initiative of showcasing original music through their iconic Tiny Desk brand. We will highlight the best of not only Korean but all of Asia’s diverse musical artists with a series of concerts.”