Culture

Streaming Services Invest Billions in International Content

Netflix, Amazon, and Disney+ are dramatically increasing production of non-English content to capture global audiences. Korean dramas and Spanish-language series are proving particularly successful.

Netflix announced a $2.5 billion investment in Korean content over the next four years. Following the global success of "Squid Game" and "The Glory," the platform sees Korea as essential to its growth strategy.

"Squid Game" became Netflix's most-watched series ever, demonstrating that compelling stories transcend language barriers. The show was dubbed into 34 languages and viewed in 94 countries.

Spanish-language productions are also booming. "Money Heist" from Spain and Mexican series like "Who Killed Sara?" have built massive international fanbases. Amazon is investing heavily in Brazilian content.

"Local stories with universal themes travel globally," explained Netflix content chief Bela Bajaria. "We are moving beyond the Hollywood model to embrace storytelling from every culture."