Netflix Settles 'Squid Game' Bandwidth Dispute With Korean ISP
Remember Squid Game? This pandemic-era streaming obsession gave us a gory, twisted take on the game show concept and generated more than a billion viewing hours on Netflix. It was enough that a Korean ISP sued Netflix in a bid to get the streaming service to pay for what it claimed was excessive data usage in the country caused by the popular Korean drama.
The two companies have been battling it out since 2021, but just reached a deal.
Though Netflix initially argued in a countersuit that its job was to create content, not manage networks, it's now made nice with SK Broadband with a deal that will see the internet service provider offer Netflix bundles in the first half of 2024.
Netflix's ad-free plan will be integrated into SK Broadband's existing services, as well as parent company SK Telecom's T Universe subscription service. It's similar to deals that Netflix has with other companies, like T-Mobile's Netflix on Us promotion.
In return, Netflix gets into more South Korean homes. "The partnership with SK Telecom, a leader in Korea’s telecommunication and innovative technology industries, holds special significance as it enables Netflix to enhance entertainment experiences for a broader Korean audience," says Tony Zameczkowski, VP of APAC Partnerships at Netflix.
A press release also mentions the potential use of AI, particularly conversational chatbots and personalization services.
Squid Game, meanwhile, has been renewed for a second season. Netflix teased new characters (and victims?) this summer, though we don't have a release date.
Sign up for What's New Now to get our top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter
Read more on pcmag.com
