Critical Interpretations of Global-Local Co-Productions in Subscription Video-on-Demand Platforms: A Case Study of Netflix's YG Future Strategy Office

This study examines the dynamics of co-production between a global subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platform and a local producer. Based on a case study of YG Future Strategy Office co-produced by YG Entertainment and Netflix, it examines how various expectations of both companies are embedded in this series. On one hand, YG considers co-production as a means of promoting its artists for the global market which otherwise cannot be produced through pre-existing broadcasters. On the other hand, Netflix expects such co-productions to target the Asian market so that it can respond to the entry of incumbent media moguls into the SVOD market. While such co-productions seem to benefit both global platforms and local producers on the surface, however, this relationship may result in deteriorating the position of local actors as potential subcontractors considering the importance of distribution in the mediascape.

Automated summary

This study examines the dynamics of co-production between a global SVOD platform and a local producer, using the case of YG Entertainment and Netflix's collaboration on "YG Future Strategy Office" as an example. It showcases the embedded expectations of both companies in the series and the potential negative impact on local actors in the mediascape despite the apparent benefits to global platforms and local producers.