Basic Service with Free Videos and Streaming Maintained
Premium Service Introduced at 25,000 KRW Annual Fee
Unlimited Viewing of 4K High-Definition Performance Videos
Digital Stage is a mobile-based performance video service introduced by the Seoul Arts Center in December 2023. Over the past 18 months, the platform has improved content quality and enhanced system stability through a pilot operation.
During the pilot period, the Seoul Arts Center streamed more than 90 live performances and recorded a cumulative total of 670,000 views (560,000 VOD and 110,000 live). The user satisfaction rate reached 78%.
With the transition to the official service, a new premium content service will be introduced. The basic service, which allows users to enjoy free performance videos and live streaming simply by registering as a member, will remain unchanged. In addition, premium VOD content in 4K high definition will be newly available.
The premium content consists of high-quality videos produced in collaboration with leading domestic and international arts organizations. Notable examples include the Yunchan Lim Piano Recital (2024), Jakub Hrusa & Bamberg Symphony (with violinist Kim Bomsori), Mischa Maisky Cello Recital, Vikingur Olafsson Piano Recital, and Renaud Capucon & Kit Armstrong Duo, all produced in partnership with Deutsche Grammophon (DG). For domestic content, the National Opera Company's production of "Tannhauser" is representative.
The premium service can be accessed for an annual fee of 25,000 KRW (when purchased via the web), allowing unlimited viewing of all premium videos for one year from the payment date.
Even after the introduction of the premium service, free content will continue to be provided for basic members. Currently, Digital Stage offers around 100 performance videos (in FHD quality) and live streaming, all accessible with just a membership registration. Representative examples include Collegium Vocale Seoul's "Handel's Messiah," the ballet "Giselle," the play "Othello," Yunchan Lim Piano Recital (2022), and Christoph Eschenbach & KBS Symphony Orchestra's performance of Mahler's Symphony No.2 "Resurrection." The range of free content is expected to expand further in the future.
Digital Stage can be accessed not only via the mobile app but also freely on PC through its website.
A representative from the Seoul Arts Center stated, "Digital Stage is a new way to experience performing arts anytime and anywhere," and added, "We will continue to provide high-quality content reliably to make performing arts a part of everyday life."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
