Orders for South Korean television series have dropped sharply, even as global interest in Korean content continues to grow, according to new research.
A report by Ampere Analysis shows that the commissioning of South Korean TV shows fell by 20% between the first half of 2023 and the first half of 2025.
While local productions slowed at the same rate, global streaming services cut back more heavily, reducing their orders by 43%. Scripted shows were hit hardest, with global commissions dropping 39% during the period.
The decline comes despite the international success of hit series such as Squid Game and KPop Demon Hunters. Both Netflix titles became major global draws, yet few other streamers appear to be investing in new Korean productions.
Ampere noted that Netflix accounted for 88% of all global streaming video-on-demand (SVOD) announcements involving Korean content in the first half of 2025. However, much of the platform’s focus has shifted from scripted series to unscripted formats.
Between 2021 and 2024, Korean content on non-Korean streaming services had surged by 55%, suggesting strong demand. Audience surveys confirm the trend: the share of international viewers who watch Korean films or series grew from 22% in early 2020 to 35% in early 2025.
Analyst Mariana Enriquez Denton Bustinza said the decline reflects changing strategies among global streaming platforms. “Despite continued demand for K-content, TV show commissions from local and global players have declined, with global SVoDs shifting from scripted Originals to acquisitions,” she said. She added that Netflix’s reported plan to cap actors’ fees could help make the local industry more accessible and encourage renewed production.
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