CASBAA/Hong Kong/Seoul/Singapore – MTV Networks International announced that it has entered into a strategic alliance with The Chosunilbo, a division of Chosun Media, for collaboration on live events, production, licensing and international distribution. The Chosunilbo is the leading daily newspaper company in South Korea and is planning to launch a new general entertainment cable television channel once The Korea Communication Commission awards broadcasting licenses by the end of 2010. If successful, The Chosunilbo plans to launch the channel in the fourth quarter of 2011. As part of the strategic alliance, MTV Networks International and The Chosunilbo intend to co-produce a music-based launch event showcasing international and Korean artists. The launch event will potentially be simulcast as part of the ‘MTV World Stage’ franchise, broadcast globally to more than 500 million homes in over 150 countries. MTV Networks and The Chosunilbo will also explore MTV Networks representing the channel and its original programming to other territories via cable and satellite platforms and international programme sales. Additionally, MTV Networks International and The Chosunilbo will collaborate on co-productions and the development of new formats in scripted and non-scripted programming produced in Korea and exported to other territories. Elements of the partnership also allow for the creation of music-based programming designed to be shared across MTV’s channels internationally, and MTV Networks licensed content may also be included in the channel’s programming schedule. Robert Bakish, President, MTV Networks International, commented, “We are confident that Chosunilbo’s application for the broadcasting license will be successful and in turn this strategic alliance will lead MTV Networks to unprecedented creative and business opportunities.” Bakish continued, “Chosunilbo’s 90-year history and dominance in the Korean media market makes them a logical and strong partner. We are hopeful that this alliance will lead to the creation of a channel that not only features some of the very best of MTV and Nickelodeon content but whose local content resonates with audiences in markets where demand for Korean-produced content is high.”