❏ Publisher: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

❏ Link: http://www.mcst.go.kr/kor/s_notice/press/pressView.jsp?pSeq=19166

❏ Title: ‘Busan Content Market 2021’ Meets in an Expanded Virtual World

With participation from around 40 countries and 400 companies, this year's event aims to bolster investment and facilitate the global expansion of broadcast and video content. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (headed by Minister Hwang Hee), in collaboration with Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Hyung-jun, co-chair of the organizing committee) and the Busan Content Market Organizing Committee (chaired by Hwang Ui-wan), will host the Busan Content Market (BCM) 2021. The event will take place both online at www.ibcm.tv and on-site at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center (BEXCO) from November 3 to November 12, 2021.

A Groundbreaking International Content Market

Marking its 15th anniversary, BCM has become a pivotal forum for showcasing superior broadcast and video content on a global scale, encouraging exports, and fostering domestic and international investments. This year's BCM will feature an innovative approach by utilizing a virtual world (metaverse) for the first time in an international content market, allowing for dynamic interaction and networking in a contactless environment. Participants can engage as avatars, view content together, and conduct negotiations via video chat.

Enhancing Global Investment in Broadcasting and Video Content

Amid the diversifying landscape of video content platforms, BCM 2021 focuses on fostering collaborations between producers and investors both domestically and internationally. Investment pitching sessions scheduled for November 10 and 11 will spotlight small to medium-sized producers, presenting their content to international buyers. Additionally, 26 investment firms will provide strategic advice and consultation, with an investment attraction event on November 11 to share insights on fund operations and investment plans.

Expanding Into Emerging Markets

This year's market will see new participation from buyers in emerging markets such as Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Nigeria, Uganda, Kazakhstan, and Iran, aiming to surpass last year's transaction volume of $87 million.

Academic Insights and Industry Discussions

BCM 2021 will also feature academic discussions addressing the substantial shifts within the domestic and international online video service markets, strategies for post-COVID adaptation, and the implications of emerging technologies like the metaverse. These discussions will be available online, offering deep dives into various aspects of the content industry.

For more information, please visit the official BCM website or contact the Organizing Committee Office at 051-747-6440.

Minister Hwang Hee stated, "Interest in Korean broadcast and video content continues to rise globally. We are hopeful that BCM 2021 will unlock new opportunities for our industry and further propel the development of the global content landscape."