Terrestrial broadcast series have long been established as mainstream TV programs, produced and broadcast through terrestrial broadcasting stations. In contrast, streaming services are digitally distributed streaming platforms, with global streaming giants, Watcha, and Wavve being representative examples. As audience preferences evolve, competition between network-produced series and OTT services has heightened. Consequently, each platform is creating unique content and employing distinct strategies to strengthen its competitiveness.

Differentiation Strategies of Terrestrial Dramas

Terrestrial broadcast series focus on providing stories with widespread popularity while maintaining classic narrative structures. In particular, they actively feature star actors to increase viewer engagement and produce television read more series that resonate with a wide range of age groups, thereby securing a consistent fanbase. Additionally, leveraging their decades of industry presence and network legacy, they continue to present familiar content, ensuring reliable audience numbers. This allows audiences to have multiple options to engage with traditional content through various mediums.

Differentiation Strategies of OTT Services

OTT services are expanding their subscriber base by employing strategies distinct from network-based television. Firstly, they actively adopt new genres and innovative storytelling, prioritizing artistic direction and cinematic quality over broad popularity. Secondly, they provide personalized selections that caters to niche preferences, targeting specialized demographics. Lastly, they focus on producing international releases aimed at the expanding international scene, allowing them to attract subscribers not only domestically but also across different cultures. Through these approaches, OTT platforms are strengthening their competitiveness in ways different from traditional terrestrial broadcasting.

Competition and Collaboration Between Platforms

As terrestrial broadcasters increasingly enter the streaming space, competition has intensified. For instance, KBS and a long-established broadcaster operate their own streaming platforms, 'KBS Streaming Hub' and 'MBC Digital', respectively, distributing their existing broadcast content on online services. This initiative helps maintain the influence of legacy networks while expanding their digital reach. Meanwhile, the emergence of competing streaming networks is changing consumer behavior towards more on-demand entertainment.

Conversely, OTT services are also solidifying their influence by collaborating with traditional TV networks. Netflix has gained a global following with Hallyu series like the breakout survival thriller and the supernatural dystopian sensation, leveraging the drama production capabilities of traditional industry leaders. This synergy helps both parties complement each other’s strengths, fostering a richer content environment. As a result, the distinction between traditional and modern media continue to blur.

Ultimately, legacy TV series and OTT services are both rivaling each other and finding common ground through their respective market tactics. Terrestrial dramas maintain traditional genres and broad accessibility, whereas OTT services provide bold and internationally appealing content. As collaboration and integration between these platforms continue to expand, audiences can expect a more diverse and enriched media landscape in the future.