South Korea's network media economy: Growth, concentration and upheaval, 2010–2022

This article examines the growth and structural transformation of South Korea's network media economy from 2010 to 2022 as part of the Global Media and Internet Concentration Project. Using CR4 and Herfindahl–Hirschman Index measures, it analyzes revenue trends and market concentration across telecommunications, media services, and core internet sectors. Despite overall industry growth, concentration levels declined due to the rapid expansion of digital cultural industries. However, oligopolistic control persists in the telecoms sector, while global platforms and major domestic players are increasing their influence in online media services. As a result, Korea's media economy has become increasingly dualized, characterized by concentrated infrastructure sectors alongside diversified media services. The article highlights that rapid industrial expansion does not necessarily ensure the decentralization of market power, and it calls for critical perspectives on market concentration and industrial restructuring in the digital age.