Korean entertainment powerhouse CJ ENM has struck a major content partnership with Shahid, the Middle East and North Africa region’s largest Arabic-language streaming platform, as the company continues its aggressive global expansion strategy.
The deal will see 20 premium Korean series from CJ ENM’s catalog debut on Shahid starting June 19, marking the Korean company’s first major foray into the MENA streaming market. The launch represents a strategic move to tap into Shahid’s extensive regional user base and establish a foothold in the Arabic-speaking entertainment landscape.
The content slate includes some of CJ ENM’s most popular titles, spanning romantic comedies like “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim” and recent hit “Lovely Runner,” psychological thriller “Mouse,” and the beloved fantasy romance “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.” Other series joining the platform include “Another Miss Oh,” “Her Private Life,” “Search: WWW,” “My Lovely Liar,” “Hotel Del Luna,” “Doom at Your Service,” and crime melodrama “Flower of Evil.”
“Korean dramas have seen exponential growth in global popularity over the past decade, thanks to their cinematic production quality, emotionally resonant plots, and compelling characters,” said Sebastian Kim, VP of international content Business at CJ ENM. “I believe CJ ENM’s drama series exemplify these strengths exactly. Our content has already captured the hearts of global viewers by tapping into universal human emotions through powerful storytelling. With Shahid as our partner, we look forward to bringing our content to a whole new audience and accelerating the spread of K-culture syndrome across the MENA region.”
The partnership comes as CJ ENM celebrates its 30th anniversary and continues expanding its international presence. The company recently inked a deal with Mexico’s Imagen Televisión for a dedicated prime-time slot for Korean dramas on national television, and its content scored multiple nominations at the Banff Rockie Awards.
Tarek Alibrahim, general manager of MBC1 and MBC Drama and general manager of content of Shahid, said: “At Shahid, we’re always looking to bring compelling stories from around the world to our audiences – stories that connect, inspire, and entertain. Korean dramas have built a massive following globally, and we’re excited to be the home for CJ ENM’s exceptional titles in the region. This partnership marks a new chapter for K-content in MENA and reflects our commitment to offering diverse, world-class entertainment to our viewers.”
Founded in Korea in 1995, CJ ENM houses three major production and distribution studios: drama production powerhouse Studio Dragon, U.S.-based studio Fifth Season, and K-OTT content production studio CJ ENM STUDIOS. The company also operates Korea’s leading streaming platform Tving and produces events including KCON in Los Angeles and the MAMA music awards.
CJ ENM’s portfolio spans Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” Tony Award-winning musical “Kinky Boots,” hit series “Queen of Tears,” and music competition show “I Can See Your Voice,” along with developing talent including K-pop group Zerobaseone.
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