Argonon’s Bridge extends in Korea

Fledgling media consultancy The Bridge has formed a pact with Seoul-based producer Bethal Media Contents Group and called on UK indies to come up with ideas to access South Korean funding pots.

The Bridge, headed by former MD of Sky’s Channel Health Amanda Groom and backed by UK indie group Argonon, was launched in May and aims to bring English-speaking producers, production companies and broadcasters together with their counterparts in South Korea.

It has now agreed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Bethal Media, which will see the two companies coproduce new TV series for the global market place, by bringing together UK, US and South Korea-based producers.

The first deals from the partnership are in the final stages of negotiation and The Bridge now wants more factual and factual entertainment series from UK indies to access funding from the Korean Communications Agency.

To be accepted for funding, potential shows must offer relevance to the Korean market, have a UK or international broadcaster attached, and be lodged by mid-December.

Groom said the move would “extend the creative and financial opportunity for English-speaking producers in the Asian market.”

“There is a considerable will to develop innovative and high quality content for the international market working with local Korean partners, underpinned by significant budgets,” Groom added.

In related news, Samuel Koo has been named honorary chair of The Bridge in Korea. Koo was previously chairman of the presidential council of branding of Korea and was also CEO for Arirang TV.