Theorizing the Korean Wave| Netflix and Platform Imperialism: How Netflix Alters the Ecology of the Korean TV Drama Industry

Authors

  • Ji Hoon Park Korea University
  • Kristin April Kim Korea University
  • Yongsuk Lee Korea University

Keywords:

platform imperialism, Netflix, Korean drama, IP rights

Abstract

Applying the concept of platform imperialism, we investigate how Netflix has altered the practices of Korean drama production and the theoretical implications of this influence in the study of the Korean Wave. Despite Netflix’s positive contributions to increasing the reputation of Korean dramas, Netflix’s aggressive international content strategies pose a significant challenge to the Korean media industry. Because Netflix acquires all IP rights to Netflix Korean originals and the global streaming rights to numerous Korean dramas, neither production companies nor Korean television stations gain profits commensurate with the global popularity of Korean dramas. Netflix’s strategic use of the Korean Wave and the aggressive acquisition of the streaming rights of Korean dramas may ultimately work to consolidate platform imperialism.

Author Biographies

Ji Hoon Park, Korea University

Professor, School of Media & Communication

Kristin April Kim, Korea University

Ph.D. student, School of Media & Communication

Yongsuk Lee, Korea University

Yongsuk Lee earned his doctoral degree from Korea University. He is currently the Chief Creative Officer at Mongjagso, Korea.

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Published

2022-12-29

Issue

Vol. 17 (2023)

Section

Special Sections

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