Webtoon’s Studio N CEO on Educating the West About Webcomic IP
Studio N, the Korean production arm of Webtoon Entertainment, continues to make waves in the entertainment industry with hits on various streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Crunchyroll. Despite its success and accolades, CEO Mikyung (Michelle) Kwon acknowledges the ongoing challenge of introducing webcomic IP to the Western market.
In an interview with Variety, Kwon emphasizes the importance of educating international development executives and distributors about the power of webcomics and the global fandoms behind them. She notes that with each successful project, the task of advocating for webcomic IP becomes easier.
Attending Series Mania in Lille, where Studio N is showcasing “The Legend of Kitchen Soldier,” Kwon highlights Korea’s growing influence in various industries and sees webcomics as the next big export from the country. With approximately 160 million monthly active users on Webtoon Entertainment’s platform ecosystem, Studio N has access to a wealth of IP with established fandoms, setting the stage for potential franchise opportunities.
The studio’s track record speaks for itself, with projects like “Chicken Nugget,” “My Daughter Is a Zombie,” “True Beauty,” “Vigilante,” and others gaining popularity and critical acclaim. The premiere of “The Legend of Kitchen Soldier,” co-produced with CJ ENM’s Studio Dragon, is a testament to Studio N’s creative vision and ability to bring fresh and innovative storytelling to audiences.
Kwon emphasizes the studio’s commitment to strong storytelling and ensuring that adaptations do justice to the original webcomics and satisfy both creators and fans. With the global popularity of K-content on the rise, Studio N is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum and continue producing hit projects for audiences worldwide.
As Series Mania unfolds in Lille, showcasing the best in television content, Studio N’s presence and participation in the Korea special session underscore its dedication to expanding the reach of webcomics and solidifying its position as a key player in the entertainment industry. The future looks bright for Studio N as it continues to push boundaries and deliver captivating stories to a global audience.
