Under the agreement with SBS Contents Hub, SPENA will have the right to select all current and future new titles from SBS and air the shows first and exclusively on One.
Ricky Ow, senior vice president & general manager of SPENA says that current distribution channels, from online, terrestrial TV and DVDs, to a number of pay-TV channels, all of which provide some form of Korean entertainment, do not satisfy the increasing viewing needs.
“There is no denying that Korean entertainment is all the rage now, hence we will provide 100 per cent Korean programming on One in the initial years. Quality Asian entertainment programmes from around the region will be added in the future,” says Ow.
Continues Ow, “The output deal with SBS will add an edge to our programming line-up. Their shows have been very popular in this region; especially their slate of contemporary dramas which will likely be a hit among the younger viewers.”
Beginning on 1 October, a dedicated two-hour SBS-branded time block will air during prime time, where viewers can catch the latest scripted drama series from SBS, like I’m Legend and My Girlfriend is Gumiho, which are currently airing in Korea. Selected drama series will be available on One just weeks after their telecast in Korea. Other programmes include drama series, My Ex and The Neighbour, Daring Woman, The First Wives Club, Princess Ja Myung; variety show, Star King; music programmes, K-POP Countdown and Kim Jeong Eun’s Chocolate Concert.
“We are delighted that Astro has come on board to be our first partner in carrying the brand new channel. Distribution of the channel in Asia is our priority so viewers across Asia can enjoy the best of Korean entertainment right in the comfort of their homes, on One,” concludes Ow.