Helpful Insight: Evaluating a Japanese or Korean Unscripted Format
Are you evaluating several Japanese or Korean unscripted formats for a possible acquisition? If so, there are a few differences inherent in these formats that make them different from US-created series. Understanding these elements will make it easier to discern the underlying format structure itself and decide if it would work for your market. So let’s get to it!
Graphics and Sound Effects
Most Japanese and Korean formats are graphics-heavy. Viewers in these regions enjoy a full frame, with pop-up graphics, thought bubbles, and funny sound effects. These elements are not a part of the format itself but just a programming style.
Celebrities
Unscripted formats, aside from some of the newer dating series, rarely feature “real” people. In both countries, celebrities are usually the focus of unscripted formats of all types. If your territory isn’t a celebrity-focused culture, could the format work as well with regular people?
Comedy team
Often, game shows, variety, or game shows are hosted by teams of comedians or celebrities rather than a single host. This structure continues and is frequently used in energetic, action-focused series.
Celebrity panels
When you watch any format, including dating and game shows often have a celebrity panel that is shown in cut-away videos. The celebs react and comment on the action, and offer opinions as scenes are replayed.
Less win/lose
Less clear-cut competition and win/lose dynamics. You might notice that in some game shows from both Japan and Korea, there is less emphasis put on a clear-cut winner by the end of the episode. This is a common complaint for those of us used to head-to-head competitions where someone has been crowned the winner and receives something. This frequent complaint is usually one format element that is altered to suit American tastes. And most Asian IP owners, who distribute their content, know to expect this comment and alterations to the format.
So there you have it, a few tips to help you analyze formats from Japan and Korea.
Let me know what you’d add to this list. And as always, let us know how we can help you identify winning shows from Asia.