South Korea’s screen industry generated $16.4bn in 2025, new report finds

New report shows the country’s screen industry contributed $16.4 billion to GDP in 2025

South Korea’s film, television and streaming sector continues to be a major economic force, generating billions in value and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.

According to a new report commissioned by the Motion Picture Association and conducted by Oxford Economics, the country’s screen industry contributed $16.4 billion to GDP in 2025.

The report also found that the sector supported approximately 291,100 jobs, underscoring its significant role in South Korea’s economy and labor market.

The findings highlight the continued global rise of South Korea as a powerhouse in entertainment, driven by the international success of its films, television dramas and streaming content.

Over the past decade, Korean content has gained massive global traction through platforms like Netflix and other streaming services, helping expand the country’s cultural influence worldwide. This wave, often referred to as the “Korean Wave” or Hallyu, has transformed the nation into a key exporter of entertainment.

The report emphasises not only the cultural impact but also the economic importance of the industry, with production, distribution and related sectors contributing to sustained growth.

As global demand for Korean content continues to rise, the study suggests that the country’s screen industry is well-positioned for further expansion, reinforcing its status as one of the most influential entertainment hubs in the world.