Netflix CEO Sarandos: “Korea is our most valued partner ... and we’ll be together for the next 10 years, too”

[Financial News] Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos thanked Korean creators and fans on the 10th anniversary of Netflix’s launch in Korea. He also expressed his intention to work alongside them as a partner in bringing Korean stories to the world.

Netflix said on the 26th that, at a fan event marking the 10th anniversary, CEO Sarandos said, “Ten years ago, we had a big dream. But no one could have easily imagined that Korean stories would move people around the world and stand tall at the center of global culture.”
He credited the fresh stories from Korean creators, the passion of actors and production staff, and the love of fans with driving the achievements of the past 10 years. He emphasized, “Stories that began right here in Korea are being embraced across every border and language barrier.”
He also spoke of the special significance Korea holds for Netflix. CEO Sarandos said, “For Netflix, Korea is more than just a country. It is a place where we discovered new possibilities and learned how far a story can reach.” He added that Korea is “one of our most valued partners for the future we are building together.”
On future cooperation, he expressed hope, saying, “The next 10 years will open up possibilities we could not have imagined,” and, “The stories that will open that door are already here.”

During this visit to Korea, CEO Sarandos visited the National Museum of Korea and met with creators, including director Lee Chang-dong of Possible Love, selected as South Korea’s entry for the Academy Awards, and director Hong Jong-chan of the 2026 box-office hit Chamgyoyuk.
First, on the 23rd, he visited the National Museum of Korea and viewed signature exhibits including Irworobongdo (the Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks), which drew attention after appearing as the stage backdrop for HUNTR/X’s performance of “Golden” in KPop Demon Hunters, as well as A Room of Quiet Contemplation and moon jars. CEO Sarandos said, “I was able to reaffirm just how beautiful Korea’s cultural foundations and heritage are. It makes me truly happy that people around the world who have fallen in love with Korea through Netflix now make this museum their first stop on a trip to Korea.”
He congratulated director Lee Chang-dong, saying, “Winning again on the same stage 24 years after receiving the Best Director award in Venice for Oasis demonstrates Lee Chang-dong’s unique standing in Korean cinema,” and, “It is an honor for Netflix to be part of this meaningful moment.”
He described director Hong Jong-chan as an “unparalleled storyteller” who makes it possible for people around the world to watch together stories that are weighty and uncomfortable, but that someone needs to tell. CEO Sarandos expressed his intention to continue working with Korean creators to bring good stories to fans around the world.

[email protected] Shin Jin-a Reporter