The Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) and South Korean television and radio network, SBS Co., Ltd (SBS), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly create media content for global audiences and strengthen capabilities for media companies and professionals in Singapore and South Korea. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, Republic of Singapore, witnessed the signing of the MOU during an industry learning trip in Seoul, Republic of Korea.
SBS’ ambition to produce globally appealing media content aligns with Singapore’s commitment to creating high-quality Made-with-Singapore content for international audiences. The partnership brings together SBS’ storytelling expertise and content success with Singapore’s position as a co-production hub, focused on connecting Asian narratives with audiences worldwide.
The network’s portfolio encompasses well-known variety shows and dramas such as Running Man, My Love from the Star, and Business Proposal, with an international reach of 300 million viewers across more than 190 countries via Netflix, Disney+ and VIU.
Deepening collaboration across the media value chain
The partnership will enable media companies and professionals from Singapore and South Korea to collaborate across the media value chain, including development, production, post-production, and cross-border distribution of content. This includes working together on creating long-form dramas, variety shows, micro-dramas, non-fiction productions, and other forms of entertainment content – from initial ideas through to getting them on screen.
Driving AI-driven media solutions and new business opportunities
To deepen capabilities in emerging technologies, IMDA and SBS could jointly develop AI-driven media solutions, such as content localisation for different markets, automated post-production processes, and AI-enabled content creation. These solutions could be tested through joint pilot projects and training programmes to support the adoption of new technologies in both countries, helping companies and professionals stay competitive and improve efficiency in a fast-moving media landscape.
IMDA and SBS will also identify and pursue new business opportunities, including in emerging media formats, online platforms, and monetisation models. The partnership will support co-investment, partnerships, and market entry initiatives to drive commercial value and sustainable industry growth in both countries. It will also tap on talent pools across both markets and expand audience reach.
At the signing, Mr Tan shared that the MOU between IMDA and SBS will further strengthen the media industries of both Singapore and Korea. SBS and IMDA plan to collaborate on joint content production and the co-development of next-generation AI media solutions, with plans to be finalised at the Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), part of the Singapore Media Festival hosted by IMDA, to be held in Singapore in December 2026.
Ms Yvonne Tang, Assistant Chief Executive at IMDA’s Media Industry Group said, “South Korea has established itself as a dominant creative force in global media, driving the cultural phenomenon we know as Hallyu or the Korean Wave. We’re excited to embark on this partnership with SBS as it complements Singapore’s role as a hub for international collaboration, co-production, and innovation. This is the start of many collaborations between our creators and institutions, and we look forward to what we will achieve together.”
“By combining SBS’s globally proven content production capabilities with IMDA’s strategic objectives, we will ensure a continuous flow of high-quality content optimised for the global market,” said Bang Moon-shin, CEO of SBS. “Furthermore, by leveraging AI technology to implement multi-language services, we believe our content will expand its reach and competitiveness not only across ASEAN but also on the global stage.”
