CBBC Slates Gangnam Project Debut

Gangnam Project, a new coming-of-age series that looks at what it takes to make it in the world of K-pop, has been slated to premiere on CBBC and BBC iPlayer on February 26.

The series is told through the eyes of a 16-year-old Korean-Canadian who embarks on a journey to Korea and takes on a tutoring role at the renowned K-pop academy OME. Her visit takes an unexpected turn when her enthusiasm and talent catch the attention of OME’s CEO.

Gangnam Project deals with themes of identity, belonging, acceptance and discovering your truth. It features an original soundtrack composed by August Rigo, who has written songs for BTS (“Black Swan,” “On”), Justin Bieber (“U Smile”), One Direction (“Gotta Be You”) and more.

The show was co-commissioned by Canada’s CBC Kids and the U.K.’s CBBC. It was produced by Pillango Productions and Aircraft Pictures, with the financial participation of the Shaw Rocket Fund and the Canada Media Fund. Federation Kids & Family is handling worldwide sales.

Julia Kim Caldwell, who stars in the lead role of Gangnam Project, said, “I’ve always been a massive K-pop fan. For me, K-pop was a way to connect to the Korean heritage on my mum’s side, and I love how it’s been a bridge for people to discover more about Korean culture. I’m so excited for anyone who’s always been a fan of K-pop, like myself, to get to live out their trainee fantasy with Hannah’s journey and for newcomers to fall in love with everything K-pop. Being a part of Gangnam Project has been a dream come true for me and I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”

Sarah Muller, senior head of commissioning and acquisitions for 7+ at BBC Children’s and Education, commented, “Korea is the modern center of the creative world, and K-pop, K-drama and K-cartoons continue to rise in popularity across the globe, especially amongst younger audiences. That’s why we’re bringing CBBC viewers their very own K-pop show combining brilliant, high quality storytelling with this huge cultural phenomenon!

Marie McCann, senior director of children’s content at CBC Kids, added,“From the beginning, we’ve been excited to bring Gangnam Project to life for audiences in Canada and around the world. Sarah and Romeo’s storytelling has tapped into K-pop culture in an authentic way, with an incredible soundtrack performed by a talented young cast, while also managing to be thoughtful and relatable, with a sense of humour. This fun and upbeat series will appeal to viewers of all ages.”