Warner Bros Discovery has taken a major step into the Korean entertainment industry by signing a partnership with South Korea’s CJ ENM to co produce and distribute new K dramas for global audiences. This deal marks a powerful move by Warner to expand its streaming presence in Asia and tap into the ever growing demand for Korean content worldwide.
Under this agreement, CJ ENM’s streaming platform TVING will be introduced as a dedicated section within HBO Max across 17 Asia Pacific markets, including Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The rollout will begin in early 2026, with selected K dramas expected to appear on the service by late 2025. This collaboration combines Warner’s international reach with CJ ENM’s creative strength and reputation for producing top tier Korean dramas.
The partnership focuses on co investing in and co producing original Korean drama series that will be distributed globally through HBO Max. This move positions Warner Bros Discovery as a strong competitor to Netflix and Disney, which have already seen major success with Korean series. By joining forces with CJ ENM, Warner gains access to local production expertise, authentic storytelling, and a growing pool of talented Korean writers, actors, and directors.
For CJ ENM, the deal offers a chance to bring its content to new audiences and expand its footprint in the global entertainment market. Korean dramas have become one of the most popular forms of entertainment internationally, attracting millions of viewers from different cultures. This partnership strengthens Korea’s role as a global content powerhouse and highlights the influence of K content on modern streaming trends.
Industry experts view this collaboration as a strategic win for both sides. Warner Bros Discovery secures a foothold in one of the world’s most vibrant entertainment markets, while CJ ENM gains access to Warner’s vast distribution network and marketing resources. The partnership also aligns with Warner’s goal to offer more diverse international programming to its subscribers.
This move reflects a broader trend in the streaming industry where companies are increasingly looking beyond traditional Hollywood productions. Korean dramas, known for their strong emotional storytelling, high production quality, and universal themes, have proven to attract loyal viewers worldwide. Titles like Squid Game and Crash Landing on You have shown the global appeal of Korean storytelling, motivating other studios to invest in similar content.
In conclusion, the Warner Bros Discovery and CJ ENM partnership marks an exciting new chapter in global entertainment. It blends Korean creativity with Warner’s international influence, ensuring that K dramas continue to reach new audiences and set new standards in storytelling. As the streaming competition intensifies, this collaboration could reshape how global viewers experience Korean entertainment and further elevate the global reach of K culture.
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