With the rising popularity of Korean drama within the states and overseas, Netflix has been putting a lot of stock into building up their space in that arena. This is not limited to just in front of the camera but behind the camera, as well. Back in April, Ted Sarandos, the co-CEO of Netflix, promised to spend over two-billion dollars on Korean dramas during a meeting in Washington DC with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
This is what Ted Sarandos had to say during that meeting:
“We were able to make this decision because we have great confidence that the Korean creative industry will continue to tell great stories. We were also inspired by the President’s love and strong support for the Korean entertainment industry and fueling the Korean wave. I’d like to personally thank the President for his kind response letter.
It is incredible that the love towards Korean shows has led to a wider interest in Korea, thanks to the Korean creators’ compelling stories. Their stories are now at the heart of the global cultural zeitgeist.”
Fast Forward to today, Sarandos has doubled down on this promise. Not just giving us great series such as Squid Game, All of Us Are Dead, or Sweet Home but also great films like Kill Bok-soon, 20th Century Girl, and Okja. Hearing Sarandos talking to film students about their future in the industry was also a good indication that Netflix will hold nothing back when it comes to the future of Korean dramas.
“You’ll see the investment in the ecosystem, in front and behind the camera, including training, to grow the industry.”
What are your thoughts on the latest development with Netflix? Do you think they are spending too much money or do you think this is a smart move for Netflix? Let us know in the comments below.
