Micro-dramas: The Fast-Paced Future of Entertainment?

Micro-dramas, an ultra-short video format, are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. These vertical-format shows, with episodes often lasting just a minute, are engineered to grab attention instantly amidst digital scrolling.

Director Kang Mi-so emphasizes the need for spectacular moments, stating that micro-dramas compete directly with user attention on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The content often features dramatic confrontations and outlandish scenarios to hook viewers quickly.

The business model relies on immediate engagement, with the first few episodes offered free before directing viewers to paid apps. This strategy has proven highly successful, particularly for Chinese micro-dramas which reportedly surpassed box office earnings in 2024.

South Korea is increasingly investing in this booming market, with companies like Vigloo developing numerous micro-dramas. The industry's growth is further fueled by artificial intelligence, which promises to lower production costs and increase output significantly.

AI is instrumental in creating content efficiently, allowing for the generation of realistic actors, backgrounds, and scenes with minimal traditional resources. This