Future Of Korean Network KBS In Doubt As Government Mulls Funding Shake-Up, Says Public Media Advocate

The viability of South Korea’s KBS is under threat due to government plans to alter its funding mechanism, according a public service media advocacy group. KBs filed an injunction against the Korea Communications Commission two days ago to stop the move, mind fears it lacks proper scrutiny. KBS argues changing the existing mechanism could dramatically reduce its revenue pot and impact its public service mission. “The success of any public media organization depends on sustainable public funding that supports and respects its organizational and editorial independence,” said Global Task Force Chair and CBC/Radio-Canada CEO Catherine Tait. “In the South Korean context, we hope that KBS’s financial stability and ability to operate are assured so that it can continue to fulfil its public service mandate.”KBS has been a Global Task Force member since 2020.