In Korea, Multi-Channel Networks (MCNs) are a prevalent and crucial component in the digital marketing landscape, especially when it comes to engaging with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) for brand promotion. Most KOLs are associated with an MCN, so brands must understand how these networks operate.
While Korea is home to a myriad of MCNs, large and small, it’s important to note that the following overview is not exhaustive but includes some of the prominent ones that businesses typically collaborate with.
Understanding MCNs (Multi-Channel Networks) and Their Functionality
In Korea, MCNs are experiencing robust growth, with thousands currently in operation and more emerging. These networks function similarly to influencer networks in other parts of the world but have become a dominant force in Korea.
MCNs are pivotal for content creation as they provide KOLs and influencers with a team of associated influencers and offer training and logistical support. They serve as a resource consolidation platform for KOLs across various Chinese social media channels.
For brands looking to partner with a KOL, navigating this landscape without the assistance of an MCN can be challenging.
Varieties of MCNs in Korea
MCNs in Korea predominantly fall into three categories: e-commerce, content, and marketing.
E-Commerce
E-commerce MCNs are tailored to support livestreamers who possess e-commerce skills or are cultivating their product brands. Typically, the livestreamer handles product design and content creation, while the MCN’s e-commerce department manages logistics, supply-chain, and shop operations.
These MCNs collaborate with brands seeking endorsements and promote sales through social e-commerce and live streaming platforms. Their polished content production and efficient management draw significant traffic, often translating into robust e-commerce sales.
Content
Content-focused MCNs appeal to KOLs with a passion for content production. They are known for crafting high-quality short videos tailored for brand campaigns.
Marketing
Marketing MCNs offer comprehensive, integrated marketing solutions to advertisers. They handle multi-channel distribution to target potential consumers effectively and conduct market analysis to recommend the most suitable KOL matrix or combination for their clients.
Understanding the nuances and capabilities of these MCNs is crucial for any brand or marketer looking to make a meaningful impact in Korea’s dynamic digital marketplace.
The Korean Multi-Channel Network (MCN) landscape is vibrant and rapidly evolving, with many talented agencies shaping the online content creator scene. Here’s a look at the top 20 MCN companies in Korea, based on factors like subscriber base, revenue, and industry influence:
Rank | MCN Company | Focus | YouTube Subscribers (Million) | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Dodaeng Media | Beauty, Lifestyle | 174 | https://www.dojeonmedia.com/ |
2 | AJ Marketing | KOL | 132 | https://www.ajmarketing.io/ |
3 | Ready Model | KOL | — | https://en.readymodel.com/ |
4 | KokTV | Gaming, Entertainment | 71 | https://www.youtube.com/@koktv_official |
5 | Creators United | Lifestyle, Education | 61 | https://www.instagram.com/creatorsunited2020/ |
6 | Studio Lulu | Beauty, Lifestyle | 49 | https://www.youtube.com/studiolululala |
7 | All That Story | Entertainment, Lifestyle | 46 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKvZn7UiD6c |
8 | IEZA | KOL | — | https://kr.izea.com/ |
9 | AD Pick | KOL | — | https://adpick.co.kr/ |
10 | YG Entertainment | Music, Entertainment | 41 | https://www.ygfamily.com/ |
11 | Studio N | Beauty, Lifestyle | 39 | https://www.studioncorp.com/en/ |
12 | JYP Entertainment | Music, Entertainment | 38 | https://www.jype.com/ |
13 | KNK MCN | Gaming, Entertainment | 37 | https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HYVDIZcb6Og |
14 | Studio Concrete | Beauty, Lifestyle | 36 | http://www.studio-ccrt.com/ |
15 | HOOK Entertainment | Music, Entertainment | 35 | https://www.instagram.com/hook_entertainment/?hl=en |
16 | Kakao MCN | Music, Entertainment | 34 | https://kakaoent.com/ |
17 | Cell Story | Beauty, Lifestyle | 33 | https://cellystory.com/ |
18 | Fantagio | Music, Entertainment | 32 | http://www.fantagio.kr/ |
19 | P Nation | Music, Entertainment | 31 | https://www.pnation.com/ |
20 | Stone Music Entertainment | Music, Entertainment | 30 | https://www.youtube.com/user/CJENMMUSIC |
Please note: This list is based on publicly available information and may not be exhaustive. The ranking is dynamic and can change based on various factors.