2022 Manhwa Forum Discusses Webtoon Diversity with Naver and KakaoPage

[Asia Economy Reporter Seomideum] The Korea Cartoonists Association, in collaboration with the Korea Manhwa Contents Agency, will hold the "2022 Cartoon Forum" under the joint theme of "Current Status and Diversity Expansion of the Webtoon Ecosystem." It will take place on the 5th of next month at 2 PM in the conference hall on the 11th floor of CKL, Gwanghwamun.

The event will be a gathering of experts in the cartoon field to discuss issues and outcomes in the cartoon industry. This year, the forum will focus on researching genre diversity through the distribution of works and new releases on major platforms such as Naver Webtoon and Kakao Page (Kakao Webtoon).

In the first keynote presentation, Professor Lee Ji-yong of Konkuk University will explore the patterns of media adaptation of webtoons through his study "Research on Genre Diversity Seen Through Webtoon Media Transitions," examining adaptations of webtoon originals into films, dramas, games, and other various media.

Following this, Researcher Lee Jae-min will present "A Study on Genre Trends Centered on Major Platforms," analyzing changes in webtoon genres and markets by focusing on new serializations on major platforms such as Naver Webtoon, Kakao Webtoon (formerly Daum Webtoon), and Kakao Page since 2013.

Professor Oh Young-jin of Hanyang University will discuss the "Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Aesthetic Characteristics of the Webtoon Ecosystem," reviewing the current state of AI technology and deliberating on its potential influence on future genre creation.

The forum will be held as a public event to gather opinions. Anyone interested in the cartoon and webtoon fields can participate by applying in advance.