Itaewon Class producer buys into Mare of Easttown co-producer to make English-language versions of Korean dramas in Hollywood
- Parasite was an Oscars sensation, Minari earned critical acclaim – Korean-language content is winning over Western viewers and JTBC Studios wants a part of that
- The producer of hit K-dramas Itaewon Class and Nevertheless has bought control of talent agency CAA’s production arm to make English-language programming
The TV drama Itaewon Class, about a young entrepreneur who seeks to avenge his father’s death by taking down his rival at a powerful corporation, has built a loyal global following on Netflix.
But media executive Jeongin Hong believes there is even more potential for the 2020 Korean-language series.
Hong, whose company JTBC Studios produces the show, wants to develop an English version of the series with the potential help of wiip – a Hollywood company behind HBO’s Mare of Easttown and other acclaimed shows.
Such possible collaboration was one of the driving forces behind JTBC Studios’ decision to acquire a majority stake in the content arm of powerful talent agency CAA.
“There is a great meaning for us entering into the Hollywood production market, producing in English, producing with American or international talents out there to expand our business,” says 36-year-old Hong, senior vice-president at JTBC Studios. “There’ll be instant synergy.”