TV Chosun: A Leading South Korean Generalist Cable Network
TV Chosun is a prominent South Korean cable network and broadcasting company. Owned by a consortium led by the Chosun Ilbo, the network serves as a comprehensive source of entertainment and news, broadcasting both within South Korea and worldwide via the internet. Headquartered in the Jung District of Seoul, the network has established itself as a key player in the competitive Korean media landscape.
The network operates as a private entity, utilizing HDTV 1080i picture format to deliver high-quality content to its audience. Since its inception, it has expanded its reach and influence, diversifying its programming from hard news to highly popular variety shows and scripted dramas.
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Key Facts
- Founded: January 28, 2011.
- Launch Date: December 1, 2011.
- Ownership: Led by Chosun Ilbo (20.0%), with other investors including Too Capital, LLC and Korean Air.
- Headquarters: Sejong-daero 21-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
- Programming: Generalist content including news, dramas, and variety shows in Korean.
- Global Reach: Available worldwide via internet streaming.
History and Market Evolution
The emergence of TV Chosun was made possible by a significant shift in South Korean media policy. On July 22, 2009, the national assembly passed an amendment to the media law, which served to deregulate the media market. This legislative change paved the way for the creation of new nationwide generalist cable networks—channels that provide a wide variety of programming similar to traditional broadcast networks.
On December 31, 2010, TV Chosun was one of four entities elected as General Cable Television Channel Broadcasters, alongside JTBC, Channel A, and MBN. These networks were designed to supplement the existing free-to-air networks such as KBS, MBC, and SBS. TV Chosun officially began its broadcasting operations on December 1, 2011.
In recent years, the network has sought international expansion. A notable milestone occurred on November 29, 2023, when the network signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)—a formal agreement outlining a partnership—with Yoshimoto Entertainment to bring the Miss & Mr. Trot series into the Japanese market.
Programming Highlights
Variety Shows
TV Chosun is widely recognized for its successful variety programming, particularly in the music competition genre. The Trot music series, including Mr. Trot and Miss Trot, have become cultural phenomena. Other notable variety programs include Taste of Love, Romantic Call Centre, and King of Survival: Tribal War.
Scripted Dramas
The network produces a diverse array of dramas across various time slots. Its programming ranges from historical pieces like Grand Prince and Queen: Love and War to contemporary stories such as Red Balloon, My Happy Ending, and DNA Lover. The network continues to plan future releases, including Doctor Shin and I Can't Live Without You.
Corporate Profile and Financials
TV Chosun is managed by a leadership team that has included CEOs such as Joo Yong-jung, Kim Min-bae, and Bang Jung-oh, under the chairmanship of Bang Sang-hoon. The company operates several subsidiaries, including Chosun Media Rep, Chosun Image Vision, and Higround Co., Ltd.
According to 2018 financial data, the company reported revenue of ₩153,172,893,532, with total assets valued at ₩270,716,352,671 and total equity of ₩310,000,000,000.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Revenue | ₩153,172,893,532 |
| Operating Income | ₩-1,036,465,441 |
| Net Income | ₩3,276,761,531 |
| Total Assets | ₩270,716,352,671 |
| Total Equity | ₩310,000,000,000 |
| Staff Members | 289 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did TV Chosun start broadcasting?
TV Chosun officially began its broadcasting operations on December 1, 2011.
Who owns TV Chosun?
The network is owned by a consortium led by the Chosun Ilbo (20.0%), with other stakeholders including Too Capital, LLC (15.0%), Korean Air (9.68%), Booyoung Group (5.50%), and Samhung (4.84%).
What are some of TV Chosun's most popular shows?
The network is highly regarded for its variety shows, specifically the Mr. Trot and Miss Trot series, as well as various scripted dramas.
Is TV Chosun available outside of South Korea?
Yes, while its primary broadcast area is South Korea, its content is available worldwide via the internet.
What is a generalist cable network?
A generalist cable network is a channel that provides a wide range of programming—including news, entertainment, and education—similar to traditional free-to-air broadcast stations.