Korean programming on FM96.3 The International Channel for the first time

Fans of Korean music and entertainment are in for a treat! For the first time, a dedicated Korean belt of songs, news and entertainment will be made available in Singapore. In collaboration with Briyo Media, MediaCorp Radio will be carrying Korean content on FM96.3 The International Channel.

With an existing range of broadcast programmes in Japanese, German and French, FM96.3 The International Channel was set up in 1998 to cater to the special needs of the expatriate communities in Singapore. The addition of Korean programming will be well-received by the fast-growing Korean community and those who have fallen in love with the Korean culture.

Korean programming on FM96.3 The International Channel will include contemporary K-pop music, useful information on Singapore living, and the latest updates from Korea. From 1 February 2008, these Korean programmes will be aired between 9 pm to 11 pm from Mondays to Fridays.

The broadcast of Korean programming was launched with an official signing ceremony between MediaCorp Radio and Briyo Media, held on Thursday 17 January 2008, 4 PM at Grand Hyatt Singapore.

Minister Lee Jong Kook, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul-General, and First Secretary Mr. Jeon Seong Oh, Director for Public Relations and Culture from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, as well as Shaun Seow, Deputy CEO of MediaCorp News Radio and Print were present to witness the official signing. The event also saw a special guest appearance by Korean pop singer Lee An, who welcomed the new timebelt with a song performance from his latest album.

Ms. Lisa Cheong, CEO of Briyo Media Pte. Ltd. says, "We are pleased to present the one and only Korean radio timebelt in Singapore. We’re convinced that the programme will be well-received not only by the Korean community in Singapore, but also by Singaporeans who would like to have a taste of the Korean culture. And we certainly hope that this program will serve as a platform for Singapore and Korea in exchanging content and entertainment initiatives. Last but not least, we would also like to thank MediaCorp Radio and the Korean Embassy for making this happen."

Ms Zakiah Halim, Vice President of Malay, Indian and Community Programming at MediaCorp Radio adds, "With more Singaporeans attracted to the allure of all things Korean, our listeners find Korean culture and trends appealing, especially its music and entertainment. It is natural for us to broaden our international broadcast content, to include Korean programming."

Mr Philip Koh, Managing Director of MediaCorp Radio and Ms. Lisa Cheong, CEO of Briyo Media at the signing ceremony.

Representatives of MediaCorp Radio and Briyo Media accompanied by Minister Lee Jong Kook and First Secretary Mr. Jeon Seong Oh from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea.

Korean Singer Lee An performing a song from his latest album at the launch.