Why the world is flocking to Busan for content

Staying in the southern port city of Busan content creators sellers and buyers are gathered there for an annual event aimed at broadening access to diverse screen productions.

Our Park Kun-woo reports.

Camera flashes light up the pink carpet as celebrities pose and wave to fans.

It may look like a glamorous scene at Cannes, but this is Busan – a major city in southern South Korea, turning into a global content hub.

At the heart of this transformation is the 19th Busan Content Market or BCM, where global buyers and sellers gather to trade content rights.

And this year, BCM is opening its doors to the public.

In a new collaboration with Canneseries, nine shows were screened before their official premieres, including the Norwegian series "Nepobaby" that won multiple awards.

"We haven't sold this show to anyone yet so it's very exciting if someone in the Asian market is going to pick it up. A good place where we can like meet new producers and see if we can cooperate in a way."

Global demand for high-quality content is not only bringing stars, but business to Busan.

"A single drama or short-form video is more than just entertainment – it's a product and an investment. Thousands of people from 50 different countries have gathered in Busan, all searching for the next big hit. And with deals surpassing 100 million dollars each year, Busan has become a front line in the global content business."

Korean companies are also making moves to meet wider demand.

"We're using AI in production -from editing to adding product placements after filming -saving both time and cost, while improving user experience."

Arirang TV also met with buyers from Japan, Mongolia, and beyond, showcasing visions for the future of Korean content, while aiming to broaden its reach ahead of its 30th anniversary.

And these efforts are fueling Korean content's global momentum with buyers remaining hungry for more.

"We are searching for the Korean costume dramas and documentaries. This is our interest."

But organizers say they're looking far beyond.

"There's concern over how long the Korean Wave can last. That's why we're targeting new markets and genres and linking Busan's content scene with finance and investment for future growth."

Since launching in 2007, BCM has evolved into one of Asia's key content markets.

And this year's edition, running through Friday at BEXCO, shows Busan isn't just showcasing content, but shaping the future of it.

Park Kun-woo, Arirang News, Busan.