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    Seoul Broadcasting System
    Broadcasting

    Seoul Broadcasting System

    South Korea flagSouth Korea

    "SBS play!"

    Founded November 14, 1990 Yangcheon-gu, Seoul
    Community

    About

    On November 14, 1990, the South Korean media landscape shifted when Seoul Broadcasting System launched as the country's first privately owned commercial broadcaster. This move broke a long-standing monopoly held by government-controlled entities like KBS and MBC, introducing market competition to the airwaves. The network legally shortened its corporate name from Seoul Broadcasting System to simply SBS in March 2000, though the full title remains widely recognized globally.

    Headquartered in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, the company operates the flagship terrestrial channel SBS TV on channel 6 for both digital and cable viewers across the nation. As a publicly traded entity listed on the Korea Exchange under the ticker KRX: 034120, SBS commands approximately 25% of the national audience share. It stands as the only private commercial broadcaster with a wide regional network covering Seoul and six major cities.

    The brand identity revolves around accessibility and entertainment innovation. Its digital platform offers over 100,000 free VOD titles and live streaming capabilities through the slogan SBS play!. Internationally, the network expanded its footprint via SBS World, a dedicated YouTube channel that exports K-dramas and variety content to China and the Asian diaspora.

    Products & Sub-brands

    SBS TVSBS RadioSBS PlusSBS FunESBS SportsSBS Classic

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is SBS Korea free?
    Yes, SBS TV is a free-to-air terrestrial broadcaster available over-the-air via antenna in South Korea, and many of its programs are accessible for free via its official website and app, though some premium content may require subscription.
    Who owns SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System)?
    SBS is a publicly traded company listed on the Korea Exchange (KRX: 034120), meaning it is owned by shareholders rather than the government, although the Korean government holds a small stake and regulates its operations.
    What is the biggest Korean broadcasting company?
    While KBS is the largest public broadcaster by budget and reach, SBS is the largest private broadcaster in South Korea, competing closely with MBC and JTBC in terms of audience share and revenue.
    How can I watch Korean TV (like SBS) in the US?
    International viewers can access SBS content through the official SBS Global app, the SBS Catch service, or by subscribing to international streaming platforms like Viki, Netflix, or KOCOWA which license SBS dramas and variety shows.
    Is SBS still in business?
    Yes, SBS is actively operating and thriving as one of South Korea's top three broadcasters, continuing to launch new hit shows, expand its digital VOD library, and innovate with technology-driven content in 2026.

    Keywords

    SBSSeoul Broadcasting SystemKorean televisionprivate broadcasterK-dramavariety showRunning ManK-popbroadcastingSouth Korea media

    Sources

    WikipediaSBS Official SiteMaeil Business NewspaperHarman Case StudySCMP

    Company Info

    Founded
    November 14, 1990
    Headquarters
    Yangcheon-gu, Seoul
    Industry
    Broadcasting
    Parent Company
    Seoul Broadcasting System Co., Ltd.
    Stock Ticker
    KRX: 034120
    Market Share
    Approximately 25%
    Flagship Channel
    SBS TV (Channel 6)
    Digital Library Size
    Over 100,000 VOD titles
    Name Shortening
    March 2000

    Official Website

    www.sbs.co.kr/

    Links

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