Arirang reforms program for global stage

Arirang President Bang Suk-ho

By Kim Jae-heun

Seoul-based English-language television network Arirang unveiled its new program lineup covering broader aspects of Korean culture and strengthening its in-depth news delivery at the Press Center, Seoul, Monday.

Arirang’s four new “K-Culture” programs emphasize two-way communication between hosts and audience by utilizing Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The quiz show “Join Us Korea” has installed the world’s first Interactive Voting System (IVOS) based on a smart-phone application for viewers to solve problems and participate in the discussion simultaneously.

The English-language network is also taking a role in journalistic diplomacy to promote Korea and provide news from the country’s perspective. Arirang seeks to join international news providers at U.N. headquarters in New York and provide a 24-hour news channel if it passes the screening to earn its broadcasting license in July.

“We’ve reorganized new programs to adapt to changing trends in information sharing,” Arirang President Bang Suk-ho said. “Technology is developing and people’s taste for information is different every day. Arirang will make the best efforts to promote Korea to the world,” Bang said.