South Korea Emerges as Global Content Leader with $17 Billion Industry Impact

South Korea’s film, television and streaming industry generated ₩24 trillion ($17.1 billion) in gross domestic product in 2025, according to a new report by the Motion Picture Association, underscoring the country’s growing influence as a global entertainment powerhouse.

The report, prepared by Oxford Economics, found that the sector supported over 291,000 jobs, with nearly four in five roles concentrated in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The MPA described this as evidence of “a deeply integrated production ecosystem.”

The findings were presented at South Korea’s National Assembly in Seoul, where policymakers and industry leaders gathered to discuss the sector’s expanding economic and cultural impact. According to the report, the industry also has a strong multiplier effect, with every ₩1 billion generated creating an additional ₩2.1 billion in related economic activity.

South Korea’s global cultural footprint continues to expand, driven by the popularity of K-pop and internationally successful series such as Squid Game. Major global studios—including Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, Prime Video, Amazon MGM Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery—have significantly increased investments in Korean content.

Lim O‑Kyeong, a member of the National Assembly, highlighted the broader significance of the industry’s growth, stating: “Korea’s video content industry has evolved beyond the global spread of Hallyu to become a key driver of the national economy.”

The report also noted a sharp rise in exports, with South Korean film and television exports nearly doubling since 2019 to reach ₩1.8 trillion in 2024, reflecting the increasing global demand for Korean storytelling.

Charles Rivkin emphasised the country’s role in shaping global entertainment trends. “South Korea’s audiovisual industry has become one of the most influential in the world,” he said. “This report shows an industry that delivers substantial economic value at home while exporting creativity, culture and innovation to global audiences. MPA member studios are proud to partner with Korean creators to bring these stories to screens worldwide.”

Mila Venugopalan added that South Korea’s success is increasingly viewed as a model for other countries. “Wherever we travel, policymakers ask how Korea did it,” she said. “This report shows that Korea’s success is grounded in strong creative talent, evidence-based policy and international collaboration. It is a model many markets now seek to emulate.”

With its combination of economic strength and cultural influence, South Korea’s screen industry continues to solidify its position as a key player in the global entertainment landscape.

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