Since its foundation in 1996, the Korea International Broadcasting Foundation, more widely known
as Arirang, has been striving to promote the country's culture and uniqueness to the world.
Now, 21 years later, the network you're watching reaches more than 100 countries across the
globe, and became the only Korean broadcaster to be in the UN's in-house network.
For a look back at how far Arirang has come and and also the road ahead, here's our Lee
Ji-won.
With an audience of over 138 million households in more than 100 countries,
Korea's one and only 24-hour English-language channel, Arirang TV, has been working to
burnish Korea's image in the international community by promoting culture and the arts.
And on April 10th, 2017,...
Arirang TV celebrates its 21st anniversary.
Along the way, the broadcaster has marked several milestones.
Arirang was the first Korean network to broadcast in many countries in Europe, Africa and the
Americas as well as the first Korean channel to be part of the United Nations' in-house
network.
"I'd like to welcome the dynamic broadcaster to our United Nations in-house network.
Arirang TV now takes its place among other major global news outlets."
Arirang TV is perhaps best known for its cultural programming.
From K-pop to traditional folk art, its lineup of entertainment programs including "After
School Club" and "Showbiz Korea" highlights the latest trends while programs such as "ArTravel"
showcase the country's cultural traditions.
"From what I've observed, many young people overseas enjoy watching Arirang TV and it
has had a significant influence on them, especially on viewers in Southeast Asia.
And I believe it's played a significant role in promoting the Korean Wave as well.
But there's also an increase in demand for more than just culture."
"That's why Arirang has also worked to offer the latest news and in-depth analysis of the
most important issues affecting Korea and the world."
Business Daily offers news and views on the economic front, while Peninsula 24 brings
you discussion and analysis of pending security issues related to the two Koreas.
"By drawing diverse perspectives from panelists of different backgrounds, we had very fruitful
discussion throughout the program.
Not only the viewers but participants have also gained good understanding of what South
Korea is faced with."
On top of that, Arirang's news division has added hourly news updates to its lineup and
is focusing more on Northeast Asia... in order to strengthen the network's role as a bridge
connecting Korea and the world.
And these changes are very timely.
South Korea has been in the international spotlight lately,... with its president impeached,
tensions with China and Japan escalating and with North Korea's continued nuclear threats.
"I think there are plenty of reading materials for foreign readers and audiences about what
is going on in the Korean peninsula.
But I think there are limited viewing materials - so there are no English TV programs and
there is not much on what's going on in Korea.
So for English viewers I think Arirang TV has provided plenty of materials that can
be easily accessed by ordinary viewers in foreign countries."
While many experts agree with the direction Arirang TV's news programs are taking, they
also say it's important for them to maintain their objectivity, and thus, their credibility.
"Having a trusted voice to take viewers beyond the headlines, experts say, will be key to
shaping and promoting Korea's image in the international community."
Lee Ji-won, Arirang News.