News  Smaller World, Wider MBC News MBC news has been the eyes and ears of Koreans for the last four decades, bringing the most up-to-date, accurate and impartial information across the country. With 19 regional stations in Korea, 9 permanent overseas bureaus, and service arrangements with CNN, APTN, NBC and Reuters TV, MBC delivers the world into our homes. MBC also produces in-depth analysis programs such as News Magazine 2580, 100-Minute Debate, Economy Magazine and North Korea Report, which cover political, economic, social and cultural issues of the day. Combined with an international news coverage, MBC news has earned the trust of Koreans as the most reliable and credible source of information. MBC also provides a worldwide news service at www.iMnews.com.     Drama Taking the Korean Wave All Over the World MBC is widely known as the “Kingdom of Drama” producing about 750 hours of quality dramas. MBC dramas have gained a prominent stance in the international arena. Trendy and fun dramas have driven the so-called “Korean Wave” across Asia. MBC dramas are being exported to 23 countries including those in the Americas, the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa. Jewel in the Palace, in particular, recorded the highest ratings in China Taiwan and Hong Kong. Its sensation has shifted to Japan, where it is aired via NHK. My Lovely Samsoon (2005's smash hit in Korea hovering above 50% in ratings) and Princess Hours (2006's smash hit Korea) is sure to succeed Jewel in the Palace and propel the "Korean Wave" force.   Sports Giving You the Best of the Best After serving as the host broadcaster during the 1986 Seoul Asian Games and the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, MBC’s sophisticated sports broadcasting technology and know-how drew an enormous audience to MBC during the 2002 FIFA World Cup KoreaJapan, capturing the highest ratings nationwide. Its around-the-clock broadcasting of the 2004 Athens Olympic Games with the appearance of former Olympic star players as commentators was a huge success. MBC’s aim is to rise as a globally competitive sports broadcaster. To this end, MBC established MBC/ESPN Star Sports in partnership with ESPN Star Sports to enable offering of top international sporting events to Korean audience via cable and satellite platforms.   Entertainment Developing a New Genre of Entertainment MBC entertainment programs captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression. An optimal blend of public service and entertainment value creates award-winning programs. These programs have helped to trigger nationwide public service projects to illustrate what entertainment programs can do for a greater social cause. MBC’s hallmark weekend programs Exclamation! and Sunday Night have not only given laughter but also deeply touched the hearts of the audience. Open Your Eyes, the miraculous medical project in Exclamation! has a resonation far more powerful than fictional dramas as this reality program deals with real people and gives them hopes. Armed with fresh ideas, MBC variety programs are clearly distinguished from ordinary likes, even bringing reverberations to society.   Current Affairs & Documentaries Applying an Innovative Perspective MBC documentaries strike a delicate balance between education and entertainment. Recognized for their human touch, MBC documentaries encompass a wide range of issues on the Korean society, foreign affairs and environmental issues. Recent documentaries, namely Glacier, Middle East and Journey Toward Buddhism highlighted MBC? use of HD technology and sophisticated production skills. Producer’s Note which first aired in 1990, has earned fame and prestige for its in-depth investigations from the producer’s perspectives. Producer’s Note mirrors the very spirit of MBC. International TV Awards have also acknowledged MBC current affairs and documentaries, which have won numerous recognition from such prestigious festivals as Banff TV Festival, ABU Prizes, Earth Vision, Asian TV Awards and Japan Wildlife Festival.