1 00:00:03.950 --> 00:00:09.832 WEBTOON Basics Understanding the Webtoon Industry 2 00:00:09.832 --> 00:00:12.574 GCC Academy 3 00:00:12.574 --> 00:00:16.042 Learning Goals Can explain the current status of the Webtoon industry. Can explain major job positions in the Webtoon industry. Can explain the future of the Webtoon industry. 4 00:00:16.042 --> 00:00:19.248 Learning Content Current status of the Webtoon industry Major job positions in the Webtoon industry Future of the Webtoon industry 5 00:00:20.153 --> 00:00:26.004 CEO Seo Beom Kang President of Korea Webtoon Industry Association(KWIA) Executive Business Director of Inamu Corp. 6 00:00:26.004 --> 00:00:31.505 Hello everyone, I am Seo Beom Kang, the president of KWIA 7 00:00:31.505 --> 00:00:37.465 Today we will be talking about the current status and the future of the Webtoon industry 8 00:00:37.465 --> 00:00:41.713 Webtoon industry has been experiencing continuous growth and change 9 00:00:41.713 --> 00:00:46.838 Because it is a digital content that is accessed through the online mobile environment 10 00:00:46.838 --> 00:00:53.218 It changes rapidly in creating new combinations and trends 11 00:00:53.218 --> 00:00:58.608 In order to keep up with such speed of growth and change 12 00:00:58.608 --> 00:01:03.565 It is required for us to understand the characteristics of the Webtoon industry 13 00:01:03.565 --> 00:01:08.208 And to accurately diagnose the present and foresee the future 14 00:01:08.208 --> 00:01:15.712 As we take a look at various job positions and roles within that Webtoon industry 15 00:01:15.712 --> 00:01:21.871 It will be a great help for you to prepare for and to set your future directions and learning 16 00:01:22.327 --> 00:01:26.901 Current Status of the Webtoon Industry 17 00:01:26.901 --> 00:01:31.921 Let's begin by looking at the current status of the Webtoon industry 18 00:01:31.921 --> 00:01:36.025 I'm sure many of you are interested in the Webtoon industry 19 00:01:36.025 --> 00:01:39.287 Yet you may not know how to approach the information 20 00:01:39.287 --> 00:01:45.564 Let's begin by looking at the differences between comics and Webtoons 21 00:01:45.564 --> 00:01:51.349 Many of you ask whether we need to understand such a difference 22 00:01:51.349 --> 00:01:56.020 Or if there is a difference, after all 23 00:01:56.020 --> 00:01:59.955 However, comic and Webtoon are two different things 24 00:01:59.955 --> 00:02:03.406 And I will give you the definitions of each 25 00:02:03.406 --> 00:02:06.505 Let's talk about comic's definition first 26 00:02:06.505 --> 00:02:09.611 Comics are based on an offline environment 27 00:02:09.611 --> 00:02:13.950 Where it gets printed on paper for publishing 28 00:02:13.950 --> 00:02:18.822 Therefore, despite possible differences in the type and size of paper as well as printing methods 29 00:02:18.822 --> 00:02:24.634 Comic is always tangible and is printed 30 00:02:24.634 --> 00:02:28.289 Some cases they get published as e-books 31 00:02:28.289 --> 00:02:33.491 But e-books are the tranformed data of something that originally aimed for printing 32 00:02:33.491 --> 00:02:37.000 In order to cater to the online circulation 33 00:02:37.000 --> 00:02:42.554 Therefore, first major objective is seen as offline circulation through bookstores 34 00:02:42.554 --> 00:02:45.149 Next is the definition of Webtoon 35 00:02:45.149 --> 00:02:48.089 Webtoon is based on an online environment 36 00:02:48.089 --> 00:02:53.297 Where the service is provided through a digital device and its screen 37 00:02:53.297 --> 00:02:58.870 Therefore, despite differences in the types and specs of the digital device 38 00:02:58.870 --> 00:03:05.545 Webtoon is in an intangible data format 39 00:03:05.545 --> 00:03:11.047 For some cases, the work ends up being printed for publishing after editing works 40 00:03:11.047 --> 00:03:15.178 But this work has initially been created for the online service 41 00:03:15.178 --> 00:03:20.271 Which then gets optimized for offline circulation in a print form 42 00:03:20.271 --> 00:03:24.257 Therefore, the initial aim is the online service 43 00:03:24.257 --> 00:03:32.455 Like so, comics and Webtoons differ in their primary aims 44 00:03:32.455 --> 00:03:36.101 Next are some important points 45 00:03:36.101 --> 00:03:39.515 Regarding the differences between comic and Webtoon 46 00:03:39.515 --> 00:03:43.908 Primary Aim A comic is for offline publishing 47 00:03:43.908 --> 00:03:47.149 And Webtoon is for online publishing 48 00:03:47.149 --> 00:03:52.495 Distribution Environment Bookstores for comics and online platforms for Webtoons 49 00:03:52.495 --> 00:03:56.200 Product Comic is paper printed 50 00:03:56.200 --> 00:03:59.891 And Webtoon is a digital data 51 00:03:59.891 --> 00:04:03.827 Viewing medium Comics can be viewed as books 52 00:04:03.827 --> 00:04:08.129 Webtoons can be viewed through digital devices 53 00:04:08.129 --> 00:04:12.742 Industry The comic is publishing industry 54 00:04:12.742 --> 00:04:16.861 And the webtoon is an independent webtoon industry 55 00:04:16.861 --> 00:04:25.455 The responsible organization The Publication, Printing and Reading Promotion Division of Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is in charge of comics 56 00:04:25.455 --> 00:04:30.525 The Popular Culture Industry Division of Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is in charge of webtoon 57 00:04:30.525 --> 00:04:35.891 Classification Comics are registered through ISBN 58 00:04:35.891 --> 00:04:38.911 And for Webtoon, though not yet complete 59 00:04:38.911 --> 00:04:44.446 it goes through its own identification and classification system 60 00:04:44.446 --> 00:04:47.132 Next, for current status of the webtoon industry 61 00:04:47.132 --> 00:04:51.337 I will go over the era of division of labor and specialization 62 00:04:51.337 --> 00:04:55.317 Webtoon now has its own division of labor 63 00:04:55.317 --> 00:05:00.444 As the process is subdivided according to the stage of production 64 00:05:00.444 --> 00:05:05.248 The divided labor in webtoon is now the job position itself, not part of process 65 00:05:05.248 --> 00:05:10.014 The steps for productioin differ with the scale, genre 66 00:05:10.014 --> 00:05:14.297 Or how the studio is constituted 67 00:05:14.297 --> 00:05:17.228 But these are the main steps: 68 00:05:17.228 --> 00:05:26.752 Planning, story, storyboard, drawing, coloring, background, post-processing 69 00:05:26.752 --> 00:05:32.960 Story can include additional writing in case it is based on web novels 70 00:05:32.960 --> 00:05:37.163 Also, drawing includes outlining and linework 71 00:05:37.163 --> 00:05:41.901 While coloring includes undertoning and contouring 72 00:05:41.901 --> 00:05:46.822 Likewise, with division of labor for each step 73 00:05:46.822 --> 00:05:52.114 More webtoons are now created through 74 00:05:52.114 --> 00:05:54.901 professional studios 75 00:05:54.901 --> 00:05:57.416 Next is about specialization 76 00:05:57.416 --> 00:06:02.023 The biggest characteristic of dividing each part is 77 00:06:02.023 --> 00:06:07.812 How such part stands on its own, as an individual and specializing field 78 00:06:07.812 --> 00:06:13.822 Therefore, while in the past there were the main-sub vertical relationship 79 00:06:13.822 --> 00:06:18.931 Now, if one can excel at one field of the production 80 00:06:18.931 --> 00:06:23.431 They are now able to achieve the professional position 81 00:06:23.431 --> 00:06:27.950 And have their capability recognized 82 00:06:27.950 --> 00:06:32.416 If you are planning for a particular job position 83 00:06:32.416 --> 00:06:36.644 You should clarify your desired position in your CV 84 00:06:36.644 --> 00:06:43.373 And make sure that your portfolio demonstrates your strengths 85 00:06:43.373 --> 00:06:45.554 Regarding that position 86 00:06:46.614 --> 00:06:50.418 Next, let's look at the "Pineapple Syndrome" of the webtoon industry 87 00:06:50.418 --> 00:06:54.218 As well as possible methods to resolve the problems 88 00:06:54.218 --> 00:06:59.301 Webtoon has experienced a fast and steep growth 89 00:06:59.301 --> 00:07:03.842 And is now one of the representative contents of Korea 90 00:07:03.842 --> 00:07:06.872 Its growth has been exponential 91 00:07:06.872 --> 00:07:12.871 And it is now actively expanding into global markets 92 00:07:12.871 --> 00:07:16.159 Many people pay attention to this growth of webtoon 93 00:07:16.159 --> 00:07:19.846 And wonder and expect how much it will grow 94 00:07:19.846 --> 00:07:26.079 And it seems that the popularity is still very high 95 00:07:26.079 --> 00:07:34.519 Webtoon is part of Korea's New Growth Industry as a cultural resource for the future 96 00:07:34.519 --> 00:07:39.584 It has also created a promising job position called Webtoon PD 97 00:07:39.584 --> 00:07:46.754 At the same time, webtoon industries, through specializing and dividing needed fields for webtoon production 98 00:07:46.754 --> 00:07:50.911 They are attributed to job creation as well as expanding the job market 99 00:07:50.911 --> 00:07:53.431 Though, the most important thing is 100 00:07:53.431 --> 00:08:00.287 whether this growth is sustainable 101 00:08:00.297 --> 00:08:05.865 While everyone is focusing on the positive side of webtoon 102 00:08:05.865 --> 00:08:09.890 Someone should point out and improve its weaknesses 103 00:08:09.890 --> 00:08:15.614 So that the foundation of the webtoon industry stays stable 104 00:08:15.614 --> 00:08:20.517 So, what are some weaknesses of the webtoon industry? 105 00:08:20.517 --> 00:08:24.861 Also, what are some things to be done in order to resolve such problems? 106 00:08:24.861 --> 00:08:27.881 Let's take a look at each of them 107 00:08:27.881 --> 00:08:31.772 Diagnosing the Webtoon Industry 108 00:08:31.772 --> 00:08:38.456 As I already mentioned, the beginning of webtoon is estimated to the early 2000s 109 00:08:38.456 --> 00:08:42.347 Meaning it has been around 20 years now 110 00:08:42.347 --> 00:08:46.647 With the growth rate of webtoon now 111 00:08:46.647 --> 00:08:51.366 Its short history is surprising 112 00:08:51.366 --> 00:08:55.429 And it is so particularly becuase it has achieved so much 113 00:08:55.429 --> 00:09:00.792 In a short period of time, with its promising future to come 114 00:09:00.792 --> 00:09:06.615 However, although this rapid growth is understandable in that way 115 00:09:06.615 --> 00:09:11.505 We should also acknowledge its side effects 116 00:09:11.505 --> 00:09:15.493 If I have to put a name to the current stage of webtoon's growth 117 00:09:15.493 --> 00:09:19.624 I say that it is still a little chick 118 00:09:19.624 --> 00:09:26.027 It runs very fast as a chick, it even sometimes flaps its wings 119 00:09:26.027 --> 00:09:33.069 But without doubt, it is still an infledged form 120 00:09:33.069 --> 00:09:36.242 However, undeniably 121 00:09:36.242 --> 00:09:40.538 It will grow into its full potential, reach the global stage 122 00:09:40.538 --> 00:09:45.714 And in the end become one of the biggest dinosaurs 123 00:09:45.714 --> 00:09:48.475 And that is the potential of webtoon 124 00:09:48.475 --> 00:09:55.468 Here, it's important not to focus on what is already being done well 125 00:09:55.468 --> 00:09:59.297 Instead, awareness and resolution to its weaknesses are needed 126 00:09:59.297 --> 00:10:03.439 This is how the webtoon industry can truly stay sustainable 127 00:10:03.439 --> 00:10:08.406 And how the ecosystem retains and completes its positive structure 128 00:10:08.406 --> 00:10:13.792 Webtoon is suffering a "Pineapple Syndrome" right now 129 00:10:13.792 --> 00:10:20.000 This isn't the tropical fruit we know of 130 00:10:20.000 --> 00:10:24.396 It is a combination of a Korean word for "bite" and an English word "apple" 131 00:10:24.396 --> 00:10:27.681 Meaning, the eaten, or bitten apple 132 00:10:27.681 --> 00:10:34.337 With only its core remaining 133 00:10:34.337 --> 00:10:38.919 This represents a very untable structure where 134 00:10:38.919 --> 00:10:45.598 The center that connects and supports the top and the bottom 135 00:10:45.598 --> 00:10:49.881 Eventually weakens and snaps; this is "Pineapple Damage" 136 00:10:49.881 --> 00:10:54.342 What we require is a resolution 137 00:10:54.342 --> 00:11:01.505 For this potential Pineapple Damage due to Pineapple Syndrome 138 00:11:01.505 --> 00:11:05.574 What is the cause of Pineapple Syndrome? 139 00:11:05.574 --> 00:11:10.257 First is lack in variety of genres 140 00:11:10.257 --> 00:11:16.723 There are a myriad of new webtoon series being released each month and year 141 00:11:16.723 --> 00:11:19.898 The fact that these many works are receiving 142 00:11:19.898 --> 00:11:24.000 A wide readership and breaking new records is great 143 00:11:24.000 --> 00:11:30.921 But the number of genres are limiting compared to that of entire works 144 00:11:30.921 --> 00:11:38.723 Romance, fantasy, action, school, adult; other than these 145 00:11:38.723 --> 00:11:45.188 It is hard to recognize other genres that are too scarce or unpopular 146 00:11:45.188 --> 00:11:49.375 Because it is hard to recognize them 147 00:11:49.375 --> 00:11:56.119 Their achievements also become limiting compared to that of major genres 148 00:11:56.119 --> 00:12:02.000 Major genres are closely related to profitability that comes from payment 149 00:12:02.000 --> 00:12:05.757 And because many are recreated as 150 00:12:05.757 --> 00:12:09.803 Movies, TV or animation series in popular OTT services 151 00:12:09.803 --> 00:12:15.921 Major genres include those that can fit into such forms 152 00:12:15.921 --> 00:12:24.392 Of course, through the works of the major genres, the webtoon market reaps viable results 153 00:12:24.392 --> 00:12:27.622 And activates and expands the market 154 00:12:27.622 --> 00:12:31.386 Which is an effective and promising result 155 00:12:31.386 --> 00:12:37.444 However, while the underdeveloped genres also have such potentials 156 00:12:37.444 --> 00:12:41.119 The fact that there is no attempt for such is a shame 157 00:12:41.119 --> 00:12:46.495 Aside from profitability, because such genres are indispensible 158 00:12:46.495 --> 00:12:51.287 In their role and value contributing to the whole ecosystem 159 00:12:51.287 --> 00:12:56.642 It would be less concerning if this was a momentary result 160 00:12:56.642 --> 00:13:03.089 But we are already seeing it for a while in its unstable status 161 00:13:03.089 --> 00:13:06.495 Webtoon has gone over the thrshold towards the global market 162 00:13:06.495 --> 00:13:11.376 And is warming up for its peak that is to come 163 00:13:11.376 --> 00:13:16.137 Of course it is already the biggest in the world 164 00:13:16.137 --> 00:13:21.416 But it is to be considered a warming-up stage before the prelim 165 00:13:21.416 --> 00:13:25.000 Meaning, the main game hasn't yet started 166 00:13:25.000 --> 00:13:31.718 Soon, many global competitors, big and small, who have recognized the value of webtoon 167 00:13:31.718 --> 00:13:38.465 Will join the global market after thier prepatory works 168 00:13:38.465 --> 00:13:44.502 Of course, up to a point, Korean webtoon will be able to win 169 00:13:44.502 --> 00:13:48.644 But regarding such minor genres, it will soon lose its resources 170 00:13:48.644 --> 00:13:53.475 And it is obvious that other competitors will be able to join the lead 171 00:13:53.475 --> 00:13:58.017 Because of this, it is needed for us to fill in the gaps 172 00:13:58.017 --> 00:14:03.347 With the works that belong to various types of genres 173 00:14:03.347 --> 00:14:07.934 As opposed to the Korean market, the global market has 174 00:14:07.934 --> 00:14:12.465 Very diverse and numerous genres in a big scale 175 00:14:12.465 --> 00:14:16.369 In particular, in forms of graphic novel or comics 176 00:14:16.369 --> 00:14:20.293 Those that are being imported into Korea 177 00:14:20.293 --> 00:14:23.436 Already demonstrate their capabilities 178 00:14:23.436 --> 00:14:29.701 They only lack a few characteristics, direction and speed 179 00:14:29.701 --> 00:14:35.178 Of this new content field, webtoon, which must still be new to them 180 00:14:35.178 --> 00:14:39.385 But in general, in their visual, storytelling and directing 181 00:14:39.385 --> 00:14:42.849 They have a very strong foundation 182 00:14:42.849 --> 00:14:49.634 With that, the lead can always change based on their effort and attempt 183 00:14:49.634 --> 00:14:54.893 Because of this, before otehr global competitors reach that stage 184 00:14:54.893 --> 00:15:01.720 Korea should quickly and adequately fill in non-major genre works 185 00:15:01.720 --> 00:15:04.644 And be ready for this future 186 00:15:04.644 --> 00:15:11.178 One of the causes of Pineapple Syndrome is the lack of platform for minor genre webtoon 187 00:15:11.178 --> 00:15:15.004 If we are to really look for one 188 00:15:15.004 --> 00:15:22.297 We will be able to find some support projects for such diveristy in genres 189 00:15:22.297 --> 00:15:26.632 There are governmental production support projects 190 00:15:26.632 --> 00:15:30.679 That encourage the variety of genres 191 00:15:30.679 --> 00:15:34.663 But there are a few weaknesses to this 192 00:15:34.663 --> 00:15:41.208 First, despite the support, minor genre production still lacks in quantity 193 00:15:41.208 --> 00:15:46.509 As I have already explained with that production support 194 00:15:46.509 --> 00:15:52.000 The governmental project only remains at the level of encouraging and retaining 195 00:15:52.000 --> 00:15:59.842 In other words, with limited qualifications and quantity in production 196 00:15:59.842 --> 00:16:03.961 There is an excess in competition for this scant amount of support 197 00:16:03.961 --> 00:16:10.297 Which makes it hard for the production teams to enjoy the benefits 198 00:16:10.297 --> 00:16:17.315 With this, even retaining the minor genres, let alone encouraging them, becomes a challenge 199 00:16:17.315 --> 00:16:22.000 It is hardly breating on a respirator right now 200 00:16:22.000 --> 00:16:25.302 And this provides the artists of the minor genre 201 00:16:25.302 --> 00:16:28.941 An experience of rejection 202 00:16:28.941 --> 00:16:34.342 Next, despite the proudction, there is no support 203 00:16:34.342 --> 00:16:38.436 For the later steps 204 00:16:38.436 --> 00:16:43.345 For the minor genre artists 205 00:16:43.345 --> 00:16:45.891 Their goal is not production 206 00:16:45.891 --> 00:16:51.600 Meaning, the artists do not only want to produce their work 207 00:16:51.600 --> 00:16:57.923 Their goal is to deliver to and communicate with the readers 208 00:16:57.923 --> 00:17:01.653 Their messages or lines of thoughts in their works 209 00:17:01.653 --> 00:17:07.100 In that sense, the works produced through such support projects 210 00:17:07.100 --> 00:17:11.788 Have no promise of connecting to the readers 211 00:17:11.788 --> 00:17:18.446 And it is a shame that this aspect of support is not considered 212 00:17:18.446 --> 00:17:22.782 And a possible question here is: 213 00:17:22.782 --> 00:17:28.392 Does this not arise from the misunderstanding that fails to recognize 214 00:17:28.392 --> 00:17:31.996 how minor genre works are very different in character 215 00:17:31.996 --> 00:17:36.337 from major genre works that easily connect to profits? 216 00:17:36.337 --> 00:17:40.776 Webtoon platforms that focus on commercial works 217 00:17:40.776 --> 00:17:44.371 Of course focus more on the trends 218 00:17:44.371 --> 00:17:49.337 Or some promises of profit in selecting works 219 00:17:49.337 --> 00:17:55.454 And even if one gets to enter into the major genre-centered webtoon platform 220 00:17:55.454 --> 00:17:58.976 That work may be easily forgotten 221 00:17:58.976 --> 00:18:03.238 Under a lot of main-genre works 222 00:18:03.238 --> 00:18:09.049 And this is more so for the short works or those that focus on 223 00:18:09.049 --> 00:18:13.702 Delivering historical records or professional information 224 00:18:13.702 --> 00:18:17.475 That less dramatize than explain 225 00:18:17.475 --> 00:18:21.047 Of course, for these works, it is not about commercial success 226 00:18:21.047 --> 00:18:27.027 But their presence themselves hold the value 227 00:18:27.027 --> 00:18:31.146 But in reality, there is no place of such an opportunity 228 00:18:31.146 --> 00:18:35.277 Where such value and meaning can reside 229 00:18:35.277 --> 00:18:42.474 Minor, or diverse genre includes works with special or professional interest 230 00:18:42.474 --> 00:18:46.862 Such as SF, mystery, historical, sports or informational works 231 00:18:46.862 --> 00:18:53.863 Or works that take an experimental approach in production techniques 232 00:18:53.863 --> 00:18:59.782 in narrative structure, coloring method, drawing style and more 233 00:18:59.782 --> 00:19:02.986 Despite producing such works 234 00:19:02.986 --> 00:19:07.758 With the lack of available place to meet the readers 235 00:19:07.758 --> 00:19:13.139 This comes across as the second experience of rejection for the minor genre artists 236 00:19:13.139 --> 00:19:20.218 Next is that the direction of the support is focusing on a peripheral matter 237 00:19:20.218 --> 00:19:23.519 The support project of minor genres 238 00:19:23.519 --> 00:19:29.000 Often demand a printed form of result 239 00:19:29.000 --> 00:19:33.960 Meaning, this support project requires a printed publishing work 240 00:19:33.960 --> 00:19:38.084 However, this support project for a diversity of genres 241 00:19:38.084 --> 00:19:44.019 Does not seem to consider diversity in the medium of the content 242 00:19:44.019 --> 00:19:47.099 Which is an irony 243 00:19:47.099 --> 00:19:54.327 Of course, publishing minor genres through printing should be considered 244 00:19:54.327 --> 00:20:03.182 However, webtoon should also be one of the ways of presenting the minor genres 245 00:20:03.182 --> 00:20:07.178 In order for them to be activated 246 00:20:07.178 --> 00:20:15.772 The next cause of Pineapple Syndrome is the lack of nurturing small-sized businesses 247 00:20:15.772 --> 00:20:19.887 There is something I learned after meeing many people 248 00:20:19.887 --> 00:20:23.337 And visiting many places for the growth of the webtoon industry 249 00:20:23.337 --> 00:20:28.345 That is, when people think and talk about webtoon 250 00:20:28.345 --> 00:20:33.000 They only think about the artist and the work 251 00:20:33.000 --> 00:20:40.901 I'm sure some of you may wonder what the problem is with that 252 00:20:40.901 --> 00:20:48.253 As I already mentioned, webtoon is now at the level of industry 253 00:20:48.253 --> 00:20:51.980 And the foundation of industry is companies 254 00:20:51.980 --> 00:20:57.366 Meaning, in order to sustain and develop the webtoon industry 255 00:20:57.366 --> 00:21:03.663 The role of companies is as important as that of the individual artists and works 256 00:21:03.663 --> 00:21:10.158 And now, there are more people in the webtoon industry who work within the boundary of a company 257 00:21:10.158 --> 00:21:13.024 They are indispensible members who 258 00:21:13.024 --> 00:21:18.822 Dream through webtoon and dedicate their time and effort to it 259 00:21:18.822 --> 00:21:22.922 Of course, when considering webtoon, the work itself first comes to mind 260 00:21:22.922 --> 00:21:26.851 And then the artist who creates that work 261 00:21:26.851 --> 00:21:32.188 That is how artist and work are important in webtoon 262 00:21:32.188 --> 00:21:39.450 However, as the environment and medium of content consumption are under continuous change and development 263 00:21:39.450 --> 00:21:43.515 We require a place that connects the artist and the readers 264 00:21:43.515 --> 00:21:47.988 As well as the service that can introduce many works to the readers 265 00:21:47.988 --> 00:21:50.854 And then the stage for various activities 266 00:21:50.854 --> 00:21:55.337 That help webtoon continue to expand 267 00:21:55.337 --> 00:22:00.356 And a webtoon company does these works 268 00:22:00.356 --> 00:22:04.137 Therefore, at this moment, in considering the webtoon industry 269 00:22:04.137 --> 00:22:08.406 We need to consider the work, the artist as well as the company 270 00:22:08.406 --> 00:22:13.161 And in order for a continuous growth of the webtoon industry 271 00:22:13.161 --> 00:22:17.992 These three main aspects should be closely related 272 00:22:17.992 --> 00:22:21.772 And achieve an optimal balance 273 00:22:21.772 --> 00:22:27.120 However, companies are yet to be the major aspects of webtoon 274 00:22:27.120 --> 00:22:30.713 Often, their roles do not gain the deserved credits 275 00:22:30.713 --> 00:22:36.704 I will now go to the need of nurturing small companies 276 00:22:36.704 --> 00:22:41.257 That are central to the activities and trends of the webtoon industry 277 00:22:41.257 --> 00:22:46.010 We need more small-scaled companies to allow for more opportunities 278 00:22:46.010 --> 00:22:50.510 In order for the webtoon industry to continuously grow and sustain itself 279 00:22:50.510 --> 00:22:55.000 I mentioned that the diversity in genres is indispensable 280 00:22:55.000 --> 00:23:01.054 In order to achieve a healthy webtoon ecosystem, we need a variety 281 00:23:01.054 --> 00:23:08.000 In genres, techniques as well as targeted audience whom the work should be able to reach 282 00:23:08.000 --> 00:23:14.050 In order to activate such genres, we first need production support 283 00:23:14.050 --> 00:23:19.193 Second, we need the small-scaled webtoon platforms 284 00:23:19.193 --> 00:23:25.307 that are able to present such diversity of genres 285 00:23:25.307 --> 00:23:29.969 I order to satisfy the numerous needs and likings of the global readers 286 00:23:29.969 --> 00:23:33.416 We need more than a few menus 287 00:23:33.416 --> 00:23:38.716 Of all, with the growth and success of the webtoon industry 288 00:23:38.716 --> 00:23:42.188 We are seeing more webtoon productions outside Korea 289 00:23:42.188 --> 00:23:47.297 And more companies are arising for this webtoon business 290 00:23:47.297 --> 00:23:51.459 As there exist various cultures and lifestyles 291 00:23:51.459 --> 00:23:56.535 There are more diversity in genres outside Korea 292 00:23:56.535 --> 00:24:04.188 Although South Korea is as of now the greatest global lead in webtoon 293 00:24:04.188 --> 00:24:10.989 If we fail to prepare for more works that can compete with other diverse genres 294 00:24:10.989 --> 00:24:16.119 It will become harder to stay in lead 295 00:24:16.119 --> 00:24:20.287 For this, we need to nurture more small-scaled companies 296 00:24:20.287 --> 00:24:26.434 So that each can fill in the gaps in their own specialized fields 297 00:24:26.434 --> 00:24:31.802 And that we can achieve a more dense industrial structure 298 00:24:31.802 --> 00:24:36.729 The next lack is that we need a support system 299 00:24:36.729 --> 00:24:41.000 That encourages new attempts by these small companies 300 00:24:41.000 --> 00:24:44.584 In particular, there is an imbalance in the awareness of the webtoon industry 301 00:24:44.584 --> 00:24:50.269 Meaning, many people only think about the few top companies 302 00:24:50.269 --> 00:24:53.743 that achieved meaningful results as webtoon companies 303 00:24:53.743 --> 00:25:01.396 And that is why it feels natural to claim that webtoon companies are rich 304 00:25:01.396 --> 00:25:08.178 And that they do not need more support than now 305 00:25:08.178 --> 00:25:14.050 This is a big problem, because one of the biggest "bites" in Pineapple Syndrome 306 00:25:14.050 --> 00:25:20.119 is the lack of awareness and support for these small-scaled companies 307 00:25:20.119 --> 00:25:22.752 This also means that in the webtoon industry 308 00:25:22.752 --> 00:25:27.861 The smaller companies are not as recognized 309 00:25:27.861 --> 00:25:35.059 For growth, it is not enough to retain the current status of the webtoon industry 310 00:25:35.059 --> 00:25:38.985 One of the core reasons why the webtoon industry was able to 311 00:25:38.985 --> 00:25:44.198 overcome its recession and achieve success is their innovation 312 00:25:44.198 --> 00:25:48.743 Meaning, new and bold attempts made it possible 313 00:25:48.743 --> 00:25:54.406 It used to make no sense to pay to read a webtoon 314 00:25:54.406 --> 00:26:00.891 That was how webtoon was perceived back then, as one of the side-benefits or means of other services 315 00:26:00.891 --> 00:26:05.580 Webtoon could only become the promising field of industry 316 00:26:05.580 --> 00:26:09.733 All thanks to the breakthrough by a small company then, Lezhin Comics 317 00:26:09.733 --> 00:26:13.574 One of the reaons that boosted profits through webtoon 318 00:26:13.574 --> 00:26:20.020 Was the innovative system of the episode becoming free only if you wait 319 00:26:20.020 --> 00:26:25.634 The old-fashioned Wuxia works from the antiquated bookstores 320 00:26:25.634 --> 00:26:30.455 Enjoyed wider readership through a Martial art-specialized webtoon platform 321 00:26:30.455 --> 00:26:35.762 And an open platform type also enjoyed its success 322 00:26:35.762 --> 00:26:41.782 Where the creators decide on their own when and how their works will be distributed 323 00:26:41.782 --> 00:26:45.169 We need more of these new experimental attempts 324 00:26:45.169 --> 00:26:48.683 In order for a continuous growth of the webtoon industry 325 00:26:48.683 --> 00:26:51.511 However, experimental attempts 326 00:26:51.511 --> 00:26:56.139 Are not something the top few companies can lead 327 00:26:56.139 --> 00:27:00.089 The opportunities must be given to 328 00:27:00.089 --> 00:27:04.099 The smaller companies with their potentials 329 00:27:04.099 --> 00:27:08.618 In terms of work, production or company 330 00:27:08.618 --> 00:27:11.238 The opportunity should be distributed equally 331 00:27:11.238 --> 00:27:14.614 In order for a balanced growth to occur 332 00:27:14.614 --> 00:27:17.849 Of course, I do not claim for more support for small companies 333 00:27:17.849 --> 00:27:22.426 Just because many small companies are suffering 334 00:27:22.426 --> 00:27:29.218 We need support to promising small companies that need more help 335 00:27:29.218 --> 00:27:35.267 As well as those who try to embrace and nurture a variety of genres 336 00:27:35.267 --> 00:27:38.692 Through unprecedented attempts and experiments 337 00:27:38.692 --> 00:27:42.822 The small companies who try to provide the creators 338 00:27:42.822 --> 00:27:46.046 A free space where they can bloom their capabilities 339 00:27:46.046 --> 00:27:49.931 These companies are those who need such support 340 00:27:49.931 --> 00:27:52.996 By nurturing and supporting these small companies 341 00:27:52.996 --> 00:27:57.525 The creators will be given more opportunities 342 00:27:57.525 --> 00:28:02.178 And the readers, more options 343 00:28:02.178 --> 00:28:06.410 We also need to keep finding and supporting 344 00:28:06.410 --> 00:28:11.386 Small companies for global markets as well 345 00:28:11.386 --> 00:28:15.434 The webtoon industry is just now forming its backbone 346 00:28:15.434 --> 00:28:19.327 And for that, we need more than the simple, nominal support 347 00:28:19.327 --> 00:28:24.644 We need an active distribution of influence 348 00:28:24.644 --> 00:28:30.644 The final cause of Pineapple Syndrome is the lack of discovering and nurturing new talents 349 00:28:30.644 --> 00:28:35.675 It is a given fact that the webtoon industry has witnessed 350 00:28:35.675 --> 00:28:39.050 A tremendously fast growth and success 351 00:28:39.050 --> 00:28:46.713 The companies that joined earlier in the game has already enjoyed such growth 352 00:28:46.713 --> 00:28:52.020 And the industry is expanding endlessly 353 00:28:52.020 --> 00:28:58.342 At the same time, there are many more new companies 354 00:28:58.342 --> 00:29:01.713 That wish to jump into this industry with a big potential 355 00:29:01.713 --> 00:29:06.376 It is a good thing considering the growth itself 356 00:29:06.376 --> 00:29:09.171 But this amazing characteristic of the industry 357 00:29:09.171 --> 00:29:13.861 which is the quick and big growth came with a few side effects 358 00:29:13.861 --> 00:29:20.000 It is the lack of human resources, a growing pain for all industries 359 00:29:20.000 --> 00:29:23.762 There is a lack of the middle management 360 00:29:23.762 --> 00:29:28.604 That should connect the upper and the lower part of the industry 361 00:29:28.604 --> 00:29:33.366 There are those with great experiences in the industry 362 00:29:33.366 --> 00:29:39.257 Especially those who have been accumulating their various experiences 363 00:29:39.257 --> 00:29:44.228 From the era of printed comics, their capabilities are proven to be exceptional 364 00:29:44.228 --> 00:29:49.202 All thanks to their pioneering work and withstanding endurance 365 00:29:49.202 --> 00:29:53.515 The webtoon industry has met its peak 366 00:29:53.515 --> 00:29:58.067 Of course, these people have their achievements acknowledged 367 00:29:58.067 --> 00:30:01.802 And are now core members or heads of the big webtoon companies 368 00:30:01.802 --> 00:30:07.574 And they are still part of very improtant related works 369 00:30:07.574 --> 00:30:09.881 So what is the problem here? 370 00:30:09.881 --> 00:30:15.861 First of all, there is a limit to the number of highly experienced, executive-level people 371 00:30:15.861 --> 00:30:21.634 Although each individual has their exceptional capabilities 372 00:30:21.634 --> 00:30:25.334 There needs more who can replace their older positions 373 00:30:25.334 --> 00:30:29.327 Or those who can be in charge of the expanded part of the business 374 00:30:29.327 --> 00:30:33.317 But there is not enough experienced human resources 375 00:30:33.317 --> 00:30:39.931 This is because there is not many who have been trained from the beginning 376 00:30:39.931 --> 00:30:42.812 And the reason is very clear 377 00:30:42.812 --> 00:30:49.426 It is because there is a lack of the middle manager positions 378 00:30:49.426 --> 00:30:54.663 Who are supposed to fill gaps between and connect the upper and the lower parts 379 00:30:54.663 --> 00:31:01.812 This results in the lack of the middle-area, or the minor genre works 380 00:31:01.812 --> 00:31:07.406 As well as the lack of the middle-area, or the smaller scaled companies 381 00:31:07.406 --> 00:31:14.297 And the lack of the middle-manager positions between the highly experienced 382 00:31:14.297 --> 00:31:21.317 And the talented newcomers; all three with Pineapple Syndrome 383 00:31:21.317 --> 00:31:25.079 This demands us the question about 384 00:31:25.079 --> 00:31:29.584 Why this is happening in this thriving webtoon industry 385 00:31:30.832 --> 00:31:35.307 In fact, webtoon could only be a successful paid product 386 00:31:35.307 --> 00:31:41.000 that fit into the industry after many struggles 387 00:31:41.000 --> 00:31:47.109 Printed comics had been experiencing not only stagnation but decline 388 00:31:47.109 --> 00:31:53.000 and webtoon was an inadequate option as the alternative product 389 00:31:53.000 --> 00:31:59.485 Webtoon was merely an additional benefit or bonus for other services 390 00:31:59.485 --> 00:32:04.574 This widespread awareness did not help develop webtoon 391 00:32:04.574 --> 00:32:08.386 And because webtoon as of itself could not make profits 392 00:32:08.396 --> 00:32:13.842 Both Manhwa (comics) and Webtoon business did not enjoy much succees 393 00:32:13.842 --> 00:32:18.881 Back then, with the scale being too small to create a market 394 00:32:18.881 --> 00:32:23.891 Only those with either experience or love towards comics and webtoons 395 00:32:23.891 --> 00:32:27.025 were barely surviving through 396 00:32:27.025 --> 00:32:31.465 And with that, not many stood up for the challenge 397 00:32:31.465 --> 00:32:36.000 In the end, those who have endured such hard times 398 00:32:36.000 --> 00:32:41.129 Now became the leaders of the industry as the highly experienced personnel 399 00:32:41.129 --> 00:32:48.475 But there is still a gap of those who will follow after them 400 00:32:48.475 --> 00:32:55.010 Although there are many incoming talents, there is not enough education for them 401 00:32:55.010 --> 00:32:57.767 Aside from the middle-manager position 402 00:32:57.767 --> 00:33:02.594 More people want to have a job in relation to the webtoon industry 403 00:33:02.594 --> 00:33:12.465 What is needed is a systemized education with which they can learn 404 00:33:12.465 --> 00:33:16.762 About the works optimized for the actual fieldwork 405 00:33:16.762 --> 00:33:21.214 Especially the new position called Webtoon PD 406 00:33:21.214 --> 00:33:26.545 Because it is new, its roles are also very new 407 00:33:26.545 --> 00:33:33.000 So what's needed is the fitting, systematic education for the Webtoon PD's 408 00:33:33.000 --> 00:33:41.109 that can direct them for planning, production, management, circulation and marketing 409 00:33:41.109 --> 00:33:47.614 Likewise, despite the increase in the number of people who are entering the industry 410 00:33:47.614 --> 00:33:52.492 What really matters is the effective education for them 411 00:33:52.492 --> 00:33:55.624 So that they can fit into the field quickly 412 00:33:55.624 --> 00:33:58.853 But still, a lot of the education and the working environment 413 00:33:58.853 --> 00:34:04.713 Still remain in the old-fashioned ways, still stagnated 414 00:34:04.713 --> 00:34:10.564 KWIS holds an annual education for Webtoon PD's 415 00:34:10.564 --> 00:34:16.356 called "Webtoon PD Academy" which has been successful 416 00:34:16.356 --> 00:34:21.376 But in order to hold all those who wish to be Webtoon PD's 417 00:34:21.376 --> 00:34:24.523 There needs the governmental support and funds 418 00:34:24.523 --> 00:34:29.099 In order to secure the people, location, space and professionals 419 00:34:29.099 --> 00:34:35.772 As well as the authority to provide licenses that enable official qualification and benefits 420 00:34:35.772 --> 00:34:39.526 As new talents are discovered and nurtured 421 00:34:39.526 --> 00:34:44.000 They naturally develop as the middle managers 422 00:34:44.000 --> 00:34:50.307 Support and expansion of education for the newcomers is indispensible in this way as well 423 00:34:50.307 --> 00:34:55.158 But this alone is not enough for the lack of middle managers 424 00:34:55.158 --> 00:34:59.558 Because there are not many with short experiences, or those middle managers 425 00:34:59.558 --> 00:35:04.356 There has been cases of moral hazards among companies 426 00:35:04.356 --> 00:35:07.057 Where they "steal" people, ingnoring ethics and manners 427 00:35:07.057 --> 00:35:12.515 Which potentially deteriorates the industrial balance in a long term 428 00:35:12.515 --> 00:35:19.584 In addition, in some cases, those with inadequate amount of experience 429 00:35:19.584 --> 00:35:25.287 Are often dragged into the upper positions, even board member positions 430 00:35:25.287 --> 00:35:28.137 This may quench the need for now 431 00:35:28.137 --> 00:35:31.881 And mend the holes as a short-term solution 432 00:35:31.881 --> 00:35:38.990 But this may bruise the webtoon industry from within 433 00:35:38.990 --> 00:35:48.644 This is why discovering and nurturing new talents with the adequate education is indispensible 434 00:35:48.644 --> 00:35:52.851 This has been about Pineapple Syndrome 435 00:35:52.851 --> 00:35:57.263 Only if we are prepared with resolutions 436 00:35:57.263 --> 00:36:04.842 We can prevent Pineapple Damage that will break the apple core 437 00:36:04.842 --> 00:36:11.525 To retain the global lead of the Korean webtoon industry and to develop it 438 00:36:11.525 --> 00:36:18.505 That is why we need to prevent Pineapple Syndrome 439 00:36:19.725 --> 00:36:24.309 Major Job Positions in the Webtoon Industry 440 00:36:24.891 --> 00:36:29.228 Next is about the major job positions 441 00:36:29.228 --> 00:36:34.593 Here, in particular, I will be talking about the latest field 442 00:36:34.593 --> 00:36:38.000 Which is the position of Webtoon PD 443 00:36:38.000 --> 00:36:42.050 In order to do that, I need to first define it 444 00:36:42.050 --> 00:36:47.842 Webtoon PD is a new job position with the rise of the webtoon industry 445 00:36:47.842 --> 00:36:53.555 That is why, when there is a need to explain the webtoon industry 446 00:36:53.555 --> 00:36:56.594 Webtoon PD is the one that arises as its characteristic 447 00:36:56.594 --> 00:36:59.069 In order to understand the role of Webtoon PD 448 00:36:59.069 --> 00:37:03.178 We need to first see how this position has arisen 449 00:37:03.178 --> 00:37:09.693 And what changes it has gone through before it settled as it is now 450 00:37:09.693 --> 00:37:16.584 In order to publish comics, we need the artist as well as the editing department in the publishing company 451 00:37:16.584 --> 00:37:19.462 In the same sense, for webtoon production or service 452 00:37:19.462 --> 00:37:26.792 We need personnel in the webtoon agency and the production platform 453 00:37:26.792 --> 00:37:33.861 Because they strive for the success of the work, they are the producers, thus PD 454 00:37:33.861 --> 00:37:39.035 And also, they set the concept and the direction of the work 455 00:37:39.035 --> 00:37:43.663 And complete the work along with the artist 456 00:37:43.663 --> 00:37:51.376 So in this sense PD stands for the project director or the process director 457 00:37:51.376 --> 00:37:56.376 Nowadays, as the role of PD has got specialized and divided 458 00:37:56.376 --> 00:38:02.000 based on their responsibility and authority level, it is divided into PD and AD 459 00:38:02.000 --> 00:38:07.337 In this sense, Webtoon PD is closer to being a project director 460 00:38:07.337 --> 00:38:11.317 How are Webtoon PD's different per company? 461 00:38:11.317 --> 00:38:15.485 There are agency, production company and the platform 462 00:38:15.485 --> 00:38:20.230 As we divide according to the purpose, the agency is responsible for distributing the work 463 00:38:20.230 --> 00:38:26.495 and the production company for producing, and the platform providing the service 464 00:38:26.495 --> 00:38:33.059 For that, the main capabilities of a Webtoon PD in agency is networking and sales 465 00:38:33.059 --> 00:38:36.504 In production companies, planning, producing and directing 466 00:38:36.504 --> 00:38:45.000 And in platforms, analyzing and reviewing works, responding to readers and managing service 467 00:38:45.000 --> 00:38:48.050 Let's now talk about webtoon production 468 00:38:48.050 --> 00:38:52.208 We have individual artists and teams, or studios 469 00:38:52.208 --> 00:38:58.436 Since webtoon production is now are bigger in scale and are in terms of companies 470 00:38:58.436 --> 00:39:03.604 But there is still room for individual artists 471 00:39:03.604 --> 00:39:10.000 And they do not necessarily have to compete against companies 472 00:39:10.000 --> 00:39:13.936 To be exact, individual artists and production companies 473 00:39:13.936 --> 00:39:18.901 Do not overlap in genre, purpose or markets that they work in 474 00:39:18.901 --> 00:39:25.000 So each can work on their own field and aim for their own goals 475 00:39:25.000 --> 00:39:29.134 Lately, in order to compensate for the weaknesses as individuals 476 00:39:29.134 --> 00:39:34.485 More individual artists are working in teams or studios 477 00:39:34.485 --> 00:39:36.921 The next is the production company 478 00:39:36.921 --> 00:39:43.911 This includes division of labor and specialization in the production 479 00:39:43.911 --> 00:39:50.000 As the webtoon industry grows in scale, the investment into it is also increasing 480 00:39:50.000 --> 00:39:55.950 As well as the scope of secondary expansion business using OSM 481 00:39:55.950 --> 00:39:59.847 This requires the adequate backup 482 00:39:59.847 --> 00:40:03.475 Including quick strategy, decision-making, efficient production and supply 483 00:40:03.475 --> 00:40:09.931 And the production company is the optimal form of these strategic goals 484 00:40:09.931 --> 00:40:15.475 As production companies increased in number, in created more jobs in the webtoon industry 485 00:40:15.475 --> 00:40:20.208 And activated the market with more supply of works 486 00:40:20.208 --> 00:40:27.436 But the side effect of excess supply in particular genres needs to be addressed 487 00:40:28.349 --> 00:40:32.023 Future of the Webtoon Industry 488 00:40:32.775 --> 00:40:37.257 Next is the future of the webtoon industry 489 00:40:37.257 --> 00:40:40.950 We are heading towards the global webtoon industry 490 00:40:40.950 --> 00:40:44.371 Let's talk about the preparatory steps we need to take 491 00:40:44.371 --> 00:40:48.406 In order for the global market and industry 492 00:40:48.406 --> 00:40:54.218 Now, webtoon industry should look beyond the Korean market 493 00:40:54.218 --> 00:40:59.218 In order to promote towards various cultures and preferences 494 00:40:59.218 --> 00:41:02.921 We need to be equipped with more genres and styles 495 00:41:02.921 --> 00:41:06.901 And the concept and direction of the work should increase in scale 496 00:41:06.901 --> 00:41:11.149 Of all, in order for the incomparable capability 497 00:41:11.149 --> 00:41:16.554 It is the most important to allow for creative spaces through 498 00:41:16.554 --> 00:41:19.297 original and creative intellectual property (IP) 499 00:41:19.297 --> 00:41:21.469 In order to continue with this pace 500 00:41:21.469 --> 00:41:25.871 As the leading group, we need to resolve some problems 501 00:41:25.871 --> 00:41:29.901 And here are a few: 502 00:41:29.901 --> 00:41:32.386 First, language barrier 503 00:41:32.386 --> 00:41:35.557 Since Korean webtoon is produced in Korean 504 00:41:35.557 --> 00:41:39.079 It is impossible for the global readers to understand the content fully 505 00:41:39.079 --> 00:41:43.614 Translation is the indispensable work for this problem 506 00:41:43.614 --> 00:41:47.492 For the translation, the speeches in bubbles 507 00:41:47.492 --> 00:41:52.123 Or the sound effects, fx's or onomatopoeia 508 00:41:52.123 --> 00:41:55.376 must all be correctly translated 509 00:41:55.376 --> 00:41:58.673 But this is not the end goal 510 00:41:58.673 --> 00:42:02.195 The cultural difference must be taken into consideration 511 00:42:02.195 --> 00:42:05.901 Because Korean culture is not something everyone shares 512 00:42:05.901 --> 00:42:12.525 THere needs extra work for translation in order to fill this gap 513 00:42:12.525 --> 00:42:16.525 And this work is done by the translator 514 00:42:16.525 --> 00:42:22.446 The translator must understand the cultural differences 515 00:42:22.446 --> 00:42:27.884 And be able to fluently deal with the local and era-appropriate 516 00:42:27.884 --> 00:42:35.158 dialects, sayings, and slang used in the destination language 517 00:42:35.158 --> 00:42:40.098 In the end, in order to hire the appropriate expertise in translation 518 00:42:40.098 --> 00:42:43.723 we need to look for language skills 519 00:42:43.723 --> 00:42:47.997 As well as the understanding of both cultures and webtoons 520 00:42:47.997 --> 00:42:51.109 The optimal translator should be equipped with all these 521 00:42:51.109 --> 00:42:53.792 Next is the cultural difference 522 00:42:53.792 --> 00:42:57.347 Cultural difference does not limit itself in translation 523 00:42:57.347 --> 00:43:00.553 Starting with the cultural differences 524 00:43:00.553 --> 00:43:05.000 Difference in politics, ideologies and lifestyle 525 00:43:05.000 --> 00:43:08.089 can be limiting and restricting 526 00:43:08.089 --> 00:43:11.485 In the end, to overcome the cultural difference 527 00:43:11.485 --> 00:43:14.685 Some more things must be considered 528 00:43:14.685 --> 00:43:17.871 aside from the catharsis and fun of the story 529 00:43:17.871 --> 00:43:21.416 First is the political theme 530 00:43:21.416 --> 00:43:28.386 It should be noted that the political theme may be sensitive or restricted in the culture 531 00:43:28.386 --> 00:43:30.795 Sexual theme 532 00:43:30.795 --> 00:43:33.261 Because it may be insulting 533 00:43:33.261 --> 00:43:39.267 or taboo in the culture, the difference should be noted 534 00:43:39.267 --> 00:43:41.890 Next, violence 535 00:43:41.890 --> 00:43:45.420 Violent themes may negatively impact 536 00:43:45.420 --> 00:43:51.782 or be inappropriate in the culture 537 00:43:51.782 --> 00:43:54.258 Next, grotesque theme 538 00:43:54.258 --> 00:43:57.168 It may be deemed as disgusting 539 00:43:57.168 --> 00:44:02.604 or be shown as expressing disgust to the culture 540 00:44:02.604 --> 00:44:05.056 And finally, religious theme 541 00:44:05.056 --> 00:44:09.170 The theme may attack the religious belief of the culture 542 00:44:09.170 --> 00:44:12.243 Or even be dealing with a tabooed religion 543 00:44:12.243 --> 00:44:16.614 In such cases, cultural difference must be considered 544 00:44:16.614 --> 00:44:21.571 Even with these two things out of the way, there is another difference 545 00:44:21.571 --> 00:44:26.802 Which is the difference in environment in the culture 546 00:44:26.802 --> 00:44:32.348 If there is a big difference of environment in understanding, accepting 547 00:44:32.348 --> 00:44:37.307 Or even consuming webtoon, it may create a restriction 548 00:44:37.307 --> 00:44:40.296 This may include regulations 549 00:44:40.296 --> 00:44:47.158 There may be legal regulations regarding expressions, distribution, and circulation or the economics of the webtoon being exported 550 00:44:47.158 --> 00:44:49.806 Next, the infrastructure 551 00:44:49.806 --> 00:44:54.490 There may not be enough infrastructure for webtoon consumption at exporting country 552 00:44:54.490 --> 00:44:59.002 For example, without adequate Internet or mobile environment 553 00:44:59.002 --> 00:45:01.799 It will be fatal in not only building the webtoon platform 554 00:45:01.799 --> 00:45:06.178 But also in providing the service 555 00:45:06.178 --> 00:45:08.890 Next is the capability of the country 556 00:45:08.890 --> 00:45:14.589 There may not be enough demand or buying power for consuming webtoon 557 00:45:14.589 --> 00:45:17.596 Or, even with a lot of population and demand 558 00:45:17.596 --> 00:45:22.139 It may be impossible to provide a paid service model 559 00:45:22.139 --> 00:45:25.326 Finally, localization 560 00:45:25.326 --> 00:45:29.518 If the localization of webtoons becomes successful in exporting country 561 00:45:29.518 --> 00:45:35.352 There will be more local platforms and works that compete with the Korean webtoon 562 00:45:35.352 --> 00:45:40.238 Which may limit stable entrance or settling 563 00:45:40.238 --> 00:45:43.385 Next is the restriction by platforms 564 00:45:43.385 --> 00:45:46.418 Considering the global service of webtoon 565 00:45:46.418 --> 00:45:51.079 It is impossible to use the Korean webtoon platform itself 566 00:45:51.079 --> 00:45:56.084 It's not only about the language, but also 567 00:45:56.084 --> 00:46:02.578 the UI structure, menu and service content, terms and policies 568 00:46:02.578 --> 00:46:06.465 as well as payment methods and payment conditions are different 569 00:46:06.465 --> 00:46:09.770 And this is only the beginning of the list 570 00:46:09.770 --> 00:46:12.335 First, there must be a new server 571 00:46:12.335 --> 00:46:16.264 In order for a stable service by a webtoon platform 572 00:46:16.264 --> 00:46:20.752 There is usually a need to build a overseas server 573 00:46:20.752 --> 00:46:23.652 However, building a server overseas 574 00:46:23.652 --> 00:46:26.541 may come with many restricting aspects 575 00:46:26.541 --> 00:46:29.281 that cost money and time 576 00:46:29.281 --> 00:46:33.522 Also, rules and regulations of the country must be followed 577 00:46:33.522 --> 00:46:36.970 In consideration of the potential difference from those in Korea 578 00:46:36.970 --> 00:46:42.386 We must make sure to go over the rules and regulations of the country before building the server 579 00:46:42.386 --> 00:46:47.617 In particular, security may be much weaker compared to building a server in Korea 580 00:46:47.617 --> 00:46:51.891 Therefore extra measures must be considered to tackle this 581 00:46:51.891 --> 00:46:53.738 Next is payment 582 00:46:53.738 --> 00:46:59.646 In order for a webtoon platform to successfully provide the service to global readers 583 00:46:59.646 --> 00:47:03.762 There must be a local payment method 584 00:47:03.762 --> 00:47:06.882 There are many payment methods overseas 585 00:47:06.882 --> 00:47:10.492 But each country uses different methods 586 00:47:10.492 --> 00:47:15.222 so you must check in advance and prepare thoroughly 587 00:47:15.222 --> 00:47:17.681 For instance, there may be limitations 588 00:47:17.681 --> 00:47:22.436 or differences in credit card types or payment types 589 00:47:22.436 --> 00:47:25.968 Finally, new global competitors 590 00:47:25.968 --> 00:47:31.444 South Korea is the leading country that has originated the new content, webtoon 591 00:47:31.444 --> 00:47:34.456 Korean webtoon is innovative and fun 592 00:47:34.456 --> 00:47:40.157 But there will be other webtoon platforms, studios 593 00:47:40.157 --> 00:47:43.186 And webtoon works from other parts of the world 594 00:47:43.186 --> 00:47:48.347 Which is already starting with Apple and Amazon 595 00:47:48.347 --> 00:47:53.485 And this may result in the following: 596 00:47:53.485 --> 00:47:56.750 First, decline in market share 597 00:47:56.750 --> 00:48:01.425 As more capable local webtoon platforms and studios arise 598 00:48:01.425 --> 00:48:06.446 Korean webtoon platforms may experience a decline in market share 599 00:48:06.446 --> 00:48:08.869 Second, decrease in income 600 00:48:08.869 --> 00:48:13.578 With capable local platforms and studios arising 601 00:48:13.578 --> 00:48:18.475 Korean webtoon platforms, studios, and artists may have less income 602 00:48:18.475 --> 00:48:20.933 Third, customer churn 603 00:48:20.933 --> 00:48:25.429 With capable local platforms and studios arising 604 00:48:25.429 --> 00:48:29.654 Korean webtoon platform may experience customer churn 605 00:48:29.654 --> 00:48:34.228 As well as the studios and the works 606 00:48:34.228 --> 00:48:39.999 We have been analyzing the current status of the webtoon industry 607 00:48:39.999 --> 00:48:44.416 As well as various job positions within the webtoon industry 608 00:48:44.416 --> 00:48:52.713 And we also foresaw and predicted the upcoming future of webtoon 609 00:48:52.713 --> 00:48:57.888 With all these analyses and understandings of the current status and positions 610 00:48:57.888 --> 00:49:03.129 As well as the expected future, what will you choose? 611 00:49:03.129 --> 00:49:09.584 I hope with the things we have talked about today 612 00:49:09.584 --> 00:49:12.873 You get to choose something more effective and efficient 613 00:49:12.873 --> 00:49:13.873 Thank you 614 00:49:15.419 --> 00:49:16.426 Summary Current Status of the Webtoon Industry 615 00:49:16.426 --> 00:49:18.204 The Difference Comics: Offline-based, printed for publishing Webtoon: Online-based, service provided through digital device screens 616 00:49:18.204 --> 00:49:19.918 Era of Specialization and Division in Labor Division of Labor in Webtoon: As the production process became more specified, each became a role, instead of a process 617 00:49:19.918 --> 00:49:21.068 Specialization in Webtoon: Now acknowledged as an independent field, becoming more professional Pineapple Syndrome and the Causes Pineapple Syndrome: Korean for "bite" and apple 618 00:49:21.068 --> 00:49:22.192 The apple is "eaten" with its core remaining Lack of variety in genres Lack of Webtoon platforms that deal with such Lack of nurturing small-scaled companies Lack of nurturing new talents 619 00:49:22.192 --> 00:49:26.578 Major Job Positions of the Webtoon Industry Webtoon PD New job position with the rise of the Webtoon industry Closer to meaning a project director Webtoon Production Individual artist or team studio Production company 620 00:49:26.578 --> 00:49:29.126 Future of the Webtoon Industry Considerations for the Global Webtoon Industry Preparations for the global market Language barrier Cultural differences Difference in environment Limitations in platform New global competitors 621 00:49:29.126 --> 00:49:31.419 Effect of New Global Competitors Less share in the market Less income Customer churn