As the first domestic AI-focused economic broadcasting channel, ABC (AI Business Channel) held its grand launch event, where Kim Kwang-jip, CEO of Studio Metakay, introduced the latest developments in AI technology and its future vision.
Kim stated, "Studio Metakay is utilizing AI to lower content production costs and secure our own intellectual property (IP), aiming to lead the content industry in the AI era." He explained that ABC serves as the optimal broadcasting platform for securing leadership in AI media.
He noted, "We have been demonstrating AI video production in Netflix dramas, advertisements, and films," adding, "We are currently developing AI virtual artists that are active in broadcasting entertainment and content, as well as brand modeling. Based on this, we are in the final stages of producing a four-member male virtual group."
Kim emphasized, "AI video technology has rapidly advanced in the past two years. The technology available in 2023 was not suitable for actual production, but now it has progressed to the point where high-quality video production is indistinguishable from real footage." Initially used for short advertisements and music videos, AI technology is now expanding into long-form content such as feature films and dramas.
He pointed out that the current content production environment is burdened by rising production and labor costs for dramas, stating, "It is essential to utilize AI to lower production costs and reduce the number of shooting days."
Studio Metakay is leveraging AI to reduce costs in areas such as pre-visualization, large crowd scenes, filming dangerous scenes, and wide shots. Kim explained, "We can now produce a video that previously took 20 billion won and eight months in just two weeks and at less than one-tenth of the cost."
Global collaborations are also ramping up. Kim mentioned, "We are conducting AI tests on some Warner Bros. projects," and noted that in a joint project with a Hollywood company, they are considering a structure where close-ups are filmed by famous actors while crowd scenes and wide shots are produced by AI, achieving over 90% cost savings.
Additionally, the company is working on content production utilizing existing IPs, including an AI animation of director Im Kwon-taek's film 'Seopyeonje.'
Studio Metakay continues to demonstrate actual content production using AI technology while pursuing performance and funding plans. Kim reported, "Last year's revenue was 5 billion won, and this year's expected revenue has risen to around 10 billion won." He added, "We currently have a branch in Silicon Valley and are preparing to establish branches in Japan and Singapore."
He further stated, "Currently, producing a single piece of content costs between 100 to 150 billion won in the U.S. and 5 to 10 billion won in Korea. However, if one project succeeds, we can replace ten pieces of content at one-tenth of the original production cost."
Kim acknowledged concerns that AI might replace humans but asserted, "In reality, those who effectively utilize AI will replace those who do not. This is the optimal time to become a leader in the AI era."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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