CJ ENM partners with Shahid to launch premium Korean dramas in MENA
The agreement will bring 20 top Korean series from CJ ENM's catalogue to Shahid.
Korean entertainment company CJ ENM has announced a content partnership with Arabic streaming platform Shahid. The agreement marks CJ ENM's first major entry into the MENA streaming market, aligning with the company's ongoing strategy to expand its global footprint, according to a report by Variety.
As part of the deal, 20 of CJ ENM's top Korean series will be available on Shahid starting June 19. This content rollout aims to introduce the region's audiences to a wide range of Korean storytelling, from romantic comedies and psychological thrillers to fantasy and crime dramas. The lineup includes acclaimed series such as What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, Lovely Runner, Mouse, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, Another Miss Oh, Her Private Life, Search: WWW, My Lovely Liar, Hotel Del Luna, Doom at Your Service and Flower of Evil.
Sebastian Kim, Vice President of International Content Business at CJ ENM, highlighted the global resonance of Korean dramas, noting their cinematic quality, emotional depth, and universal themes. 'Our drama series have won the hearts of global audiences by capturing human emotions through compelling storytelling,' he said. 'Partnering with Shahid gives us an opportunity to reach a whole new audience and further drive the K-culture wave in the MENA region.'
The launch coincides with CJ ENM's 30th anniversary and follows other international efforts, including a recent deal with Mexico's Imagen Televisión for a Korean drama primetime slot and multiple nominations at the Banff Rockie Awards.
Tarek Alibrahim, General Manager of MBC1 and MBC Drama and General Manager of Content at Shahid, added: 'Korean dramas have built a massive global following, and we're thrilled to become the home for CJ ENM's top titles in the region. This partnership signals a new era for K-content in MENA and reinforces our mission to deliver rich, world-class entertainment to our audience.'
The collaboration not only strengthens CJ ENM's global presence but also positions Shahid as a key platform for introducing premium Korean content to Arabic-speaking viewers across the region.
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