MBC builds deal with Banijay for South Korean version of Lego Masters

Lego Masters first aired in the UK

MIPCOM: Korean pubcaster MBC has commissioned a local version of reality competition format Lego Masters.

The South Korean network will broadcast and coproduce the show with LA- and Seoul-based production company B&C Content. It will become the only non-Korean unscripted format to air on free-to-air television in the country.

Lego Masters was originally created by the UK’s Tuesday’s Child Television and the Lego Group. It tasks two teams of Lego lovers with creating complex builds to impress judges.

The format has been ordered by 16 international broadcasters across Europe, the US, Australia and Asia, including recent sales to TVNZ in New Zealand, Atresmedia in Spain and TV2 in Norway.

Banijay distributes the format and finished tape of the show around the world and is shopping it at Mipcom in Cannes this week.

Daryl Kho, senior VP for Asia for formats at Banijay Rights, said: “Lego Masters is already a global phenomenon, providing upbeat and inclusive viewing to audiences worldwide, so taking this show to South Korea is a thrilling moment for Banijay Rights.

“This is a landmark deal – the only unscripted format originating from outside South Korea to air on its free-to-air TV channels – and I can’t wait to see the creative builds the Korean contestants will dream up with their Lego bricks.”