The Emerging New Hallyu Sprouting at the Heart of the Animation Market

Operation of Korean Joint Pavilion at Annecy International Animation Film Market
Roy Visual Signs Merchandising Agent Contract for 'Robocar Poli'
Pingo Entertainment Agrees on Co-production of 'Sasha & Milo'

Scenes from the Korea Pavilion at the Annecy International Animation Film Market

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency announced on the 22nd that they operated a Korean joint pavilion at the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA) from the 14th to the 17th. It was established for the first time to find new opportunities in line with the resumption of face-to-face business. This year, more than 150 exhibition booths were set up at MIFA. About 300 buyers and approximately 5,500 animation industry professionals visited.

Twelve major domestic animation companies participated at the base. These include Royvisual, Messe, Side9, Studio Gale, Ice Cream Studio, Iconix, Anijak, Youngshilup, J-Bucks, Cocktail Media, Taktoon Enterprise, and Pingo Entertainment. Over four days, about 120 consultations were held with global buyers. A representative from the Korea Creative Content Agency said, "We invited mainly buyers interested in investment, distribution, and co-production to pitch new and completed works," adding, "We also sought follow-up networking and business opportunities."

Many achieved meaningful results. Royvisual signed a merchandising agent contract for 'Robocar Poli' with Ukrainian distributor LLD Nerd Agency. This will serve as a stepping stone to resume animation and character business in Ukraine. Pingo Entertainment agreed to co-produce 'Sasha & Milo' with Zodiac Kids and Family France. They will take charge of directing and production to present high-quality action animation.

Pingo Entertainment and Zodiac Kids & Family France Sign Co-Production Agreement for 'Sasha & Milo'

Major market targeting will continue going forward. A representative from the Korea Creative Content Agency stated, "In the second half of the year, we will operate a Korean joint pavilion at France's MIPCOM, and in the first half of next year, we plan to participate in the U.S. Kidscreen Summit," adding, "We will support tailored overseas expansion considering the demands of domestic animation companies."