Seoul, Korea and Burbank, California – Disney Channel International and SK Telecom today announced the intent to form a joint venture to launch Korean-language Disney-branded channels in South Korea. This will be the first-ever joint venture by The Walt Disney Company to launch Disney Channels anywhere in the world. In a press release, the companies said the joint venture company will launch Korean-language versions of Disney Channel and Playhouse Disney Channel targeted at kids and families in South Korea. These two channels will be available in HD multiplex, as well as SD format over cable, direct-to-home and IPTV platforms and related on-demand digital media services in South Korea. Anchored by Disney characters and family-friendly content, the channels will air a significant portion of locally produced, Korean-language programming. The launch of the channels is slated for spring 2011, pending regulatory approval from the Korea Communications Commission. SK Telecom will be the majority (51%) shareholder in the joint venture company and will bring to the partnership its expertise in mobile, IPTV and digital media platforms, as well as operational experience and business expertise as one of the largest conglomerates in South Korea. In return for its 49% stake in the venture, The Walt Disney Company, which owns Disney Channel, will provide its globally recognized portfolio of kids and family-targeted content, marketing expertise, and local content production and acquisition support.