Expert at Saudi Media Forum highlights popularity of Korean content in Middle East and beyond

This handout picture provided by HB Entertainment and Drama House on January 31, 2019 shows a still of the South Korean TV drama "SKY Castle". (File/AFP)
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Updated 21 February 2023
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Expert at Saudi Media Forum highlights popularity of Korean content in Middle East and beyond

  • Si Hyang Lee said there is a big market for films, TV series, video games and other content from his country in the Gulf region, and in Saudi Arabia in particular

RIYADH: South Korean media expert Si Hyang Lee highlighted the global popularity of Korean content when he appeared at the Saudi Media Forum on Monday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Speaking during the opening day of the two-day event, Lee, who is part of a policy-planning team for South Korean media channels, said the industry in his country includes about 1,000 companies that produce hundreds of films and TV series each year. While planning and making movies and shows, Korean producers are thinking about how best to promote them around the world, he added.

He also emphasized Korea’s successes in media technology, noting for example that the country produces 60 percent of the world’s video games.

“As we look at the future and Korean content, we focus on the global market, particularly the Middle Eastern countries, where we are widely popular,” Lee said.

“We also have a large market in the Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, with whom we share very similar cultures.”

He noted that his country is also developing educational programs, in mathematics and English language, for use in the Kingdom.

 


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

FASTFACT

In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.