The Impact of Imported Korean Teledramas on Sri Lankan Teledramas

Abstract: The infusion of Korean television dramas, popularly known as K-dramas, has profoundly shaped the narrative landscape and consumption patterns of television entertainment across the globe. Sri Lanka began importing Korean TV dramas in 2001. This article aims to investigate the effects of imported K-dramas based on the themes and airtime distribution of Sri Lankan teledramas, offering a nuanced analysis of the market dynamics at play. Previous studies have examined the impact of K-dramas on viewers, particularly their cultural and social behavioral impacts. In contrast, this study focused on the effects of imported K-dramas on existing local teledramas, especially in terms of allocated airtime acquisition. Moreover, the study analyzed major thematic elements. The research was conducted through qualitative analysis of teledrama content, categorized into three major genres (romance, historical, and fantasy), and online interviews with industry practitioners and local teledrama directors. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between imported and local teledrama cultures. By elucidating the transformative effects of imported K-dramas, this study sheds light on the evolving dynamics of supply and demand for local audiences that are aligned with genre trends and market orientation.