Korean entertainment giant CJ ENM has taken a bold step into Saudi Arabia by opening a new subsidiary. This move makes it the first major Korean media company to establish a direct presence in the rapidly growing Saudi market.
The decision aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify its economy beyond oil. Korean entertainment giant CJ ENM has been strengthening ties with the region since 2022. That year, it signed a key agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture.
In 2023, the company partnered with Manga Productions, a leading Saudi content creator. Together, they plan to co-produce animation, films, and webtoons. Additionally, CJ ENM successfully hosted its K-Pop festival, KCON, in Saudi Arabia twice.
More recently, Korean entertainment giant CJ ENM secured a major deal with Shahid, the top Arabic streaming platform. The agreement will bring 20 Korean TV series to Middle Eastern audiences.
The new subsidiary, based in Riyadh, will focus on multiple entertainment sectors. These include music, television, film, and live events. CJ ENM also aims to develop talent shows and K-pop concerts in collaboration with local partners.
Yoon Sang-hyun, a key executive at CJ ENM, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion. He stated that entering Saudi Arabia boosts the company’s global competitiveness.
Hyun Soo Kim, General Manager of CJ ENM Middle East, highlighted the region’s vast potential. He confirmed partnerships with Saudi event specialists like Sela to ensure success.
With this bold move, CJ ENM is set to deepen its influence in the MENA region. The company’s expansion reflects the growing global demand for Korean entertainment.
