KBS World Radio: Seven Decades of South Korean International Broadcasting
For over 70 years, KBS World Radio has served as a vital link between South Korea and the rest of the world. As the official international broadcasting arm of the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), the station provides news, culture, and information to a global audience, bridging linguistic and geographical gaps through the power of radio.
Originally established to share the voice of the nation with the international community, the station has evolved from a single-language service into a multilingual powerhouse. Today, it broadcasts in 11 different languages, ensuring that South Korean perspectives reach listeners across the globe.
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Key Facts
- Owner: Korean Broadcasting System (KBS)
- Launch Date: 15 August 1953
- Languages: 11 (including Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish)
- Primary Transmission: Shortwave via the Gimje transmitting station
- Current Name: KBS World Radio (since 2005)
A Rich History of Evolution
The journey of KBS World Radio is marked by significant milestones that reflect the changing landscape of global communication. The station began its journey on 15 August 1953, under the name The Voice of Free Korea, broadcasting exclusively in English.
Expansion of Languages and Identity
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the station rapidly expanded its linguistic reach. It introduced Japanese in 1955, followed by Korean in 1957, and later added French, Russian, Chinese, and Spanish. As its mission grew, so did its identity:
- 1973: Renamed to Radio Korea.
- 1994: Renamed to Radio Korea International.
- 2005: Officially became KBS World Radio.
The station has also embraced the digital age, beginning online broadcasts in 1997 and expanding to satellite transmissions in 2003 to mark its 50th anniversary.
Technical Diffusion and Transmission
To reach an international audience, KBS World Radio utilizes shortwave—a method of radio transmission that allows signals to travel long distances by bouncing off the ionosphere. The primary hub for this is the Gimje transmitting station, located 270 kilometers south of Seoul. Established in 1975, this facility houses seven transmitters, including three powerful 250 kW units and four 100 kW units, ensuring a robust signal reaches listeners worldwide.
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Current English-Language Programming
KBS World Radio offers a diverse array of English-language programming designed to inform and entertain. From daily news updates to deep dives into Korean culture and music, there is a schedule to suit various interests.
| Program Name | Schedule | Host(s) |
|---|---|---|
| News | Everyday 17:00 - 17:10 | Arius Derr, Rosyn Park, Mark Broome |
| Korea24 | Mon-Fri 19:10 - 20:00 | Alannah Hill |
| K-Pop Connection | Mon-Fri 20:00 - 22:00 | Brian Joo |
| Sounds of Korea | Wed 22:10 - 22:30 | Walter Lee |
| Korea, Today and Tomorrow | Thu 22:10 - 22:30 | Kim Yun-jeong |
| Korea Travelog | Fri 22:10 - 22:30 | Jenny Jo |
| Weekend Playlist | Sat-Sun 17:00 - 20:00 | Alexander |
| Wonder Hours with Hyerim | Mon-Fri 17:10 - 19:10 | Woo Hye-rim |
Frequently Asked Questions
What languages does KBS World Radio broadcast in?
The station currently broadcasts in 11 languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, Arabic, Vietnamese, Russian, German, French, and Spanish.
How can I listen to KBS World Radio?
Listeners can access the station via shortwave radio, satellite, and through their official website at world.kbs.co.kr.
When was KBS World Radio founded?
The station was founded on 15 August 1953, originally operating as The Voice of Free Korea.
What is the purpose of the Gimje transmitting station?
The Gimje station is a critical infrastructure component that uses seven high-power transmitters to broadcast shortwave signals across international borders.
Has the station ever broadcast in Portuguese or Italian?
Yes, the station previously broadcast in Portuguese (until March 1994) and Italian (until October 1994).