KBS America: Bringing Korean Broadcasting to the Americas
For the Korean diaspora across North and South America, staying connected to their cultural roots and current events in South Korea is essential. KBS America serves as a vital bridge, providing high-quality Korean-language programming tailored specifically for viewers in the Western Hemisphere.
Operated by the U.S. subsidiary of the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), the network ensures that Korean speakers have access to a diverse array of content, ranging from news to entertainment. While it is part of the broader KBS network, KBS America maintains a broadcasting schedule that is distinct from KBS World in South Korea to better serve its regional audience.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: October 6, 2005.
- Headquarters: Los Angeles, California.
- Target Audience: Koreans residing in North and South America.
- Ownership: Korean Broadcasting System.
- Language: Korean.
- Canadian Presence: Operated by All TV Inc.
History and Evolution
The journey of KBS America began on September 6, 2004. Initially, the network launched via cable operators in major U.S. cities with significant Korean populations, including Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Atlanta, and Washington. This strategic rollout ensured that the channel reached the communities that needed it most.
Following its initial cable launch, the network expanded its capabilities. By 2005, the service transitioned toward a 24-hour broadcasting model, officially launching in its full capacity on October 6, 2005.
Broadcast Availability and Digital Reach
KBS America is available through various platforms, including terrestrial over-the-air signals. This allows viewers with digital antennas to access the channel without a cable subscription in several major metropolitan areas.
The network utilizes a variety of digital stations to maintain its presence across the United States, ensuring wide coverage from the West Coast to the East Coast.
| City | Station | Virtual Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | WANN-CD | 32.7 |
| Chicago | WOCK-CD | 13.2 |
| Honolulu | KBFD-DT | 32.2 |
| Los Angeles | KXLA | 44.1 (Part Time/Secondary) |
| San Francisco | KICU-TV | 36.2 |
| Dallas | KLEG-CD | 44.2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is KBS America?
KBS America is a television channel operated by the U.S. subsidiary of the Korean Broadcasting System, designed to provide Korean-language programming to viewers in North and South America.
How does KBS America differ from KBS World?
While both are part of the Korean Broadcasting System, KBS America runs a broadcasting schedule that is separate from the KBS World schedule used in South Korea.
Is KBS America available in Canada?
Yes, there is a Canadian variant of the channel that is broadcast across Canada and operated by All TV Inc.
Where is the headquarters of KBS America located?
The network's headquarters are located in Los Angeles, California.
Can I watch KBS America over-the-air?
Yes, KBS America is available via terrestrial digital broadcast in several cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas.