Are multiple seasons becoming the new norm for Korean dramas?

Korean dramas are increasingly adopting a multi-season format. Following the lead of streaming platforms, traditional broadcasters have begun releasing new dramas that build on the worlds and characters of earlier installments. Industry watchers say the shift reflects efforts to reduce the risk of failure at a time of increasing production costs and growing uncertainty over whether new projects will succeed. SBS stands as powerhouse in season-based dramas SBS sits at the forefront of Korea's season-based drama production. The massive success of its three-season project “Dr. Romantic,” which first aired in 2016 and at one point reached peak ratings of 28.4 percent, fueled a push for multi-season drama production. The successes that followed, including “The Fiery Piest,” “The Penthouse: War in Life” and “Taxi Driver,” have turned SBS into an undisputed powerhouse for dramas that keep going. “What makes SBS’ season-based dramas so successful is a combination of strong worldbuilding, compelling characters and stories of karma where justice prevails,” said Kim Ki-seul, h