Walt Disney Co. is investing in Japanese anime exclusives and expanding the Korean superhero franchise for a larger share of the Asian streaming market.

The Burbank, California-based company said Thursday at its APAC content showcase in Singapore that rising Netflix rival Disney+ has renewed superhero drama Moving for a second season. The series, created by South Korean webtoon artist Kang-Phil, became a global hit and won more than 10 industry awards, Disney said. The company is deepening its partnership with Kangfull with the upcoming horror mystery series Lightshop.

In addition to loading up on more Korean content, Disney+ is turning its Twisted Wonderland mobile game, developed in-house with manga artist Yana Toboso, into an animated series next year. The franchise has already expanded into novels and manga, and its addition to Disney’s streaming platform is the next step in expanding into new formats and mediums.

Disney+ will also have exclusive rights to distribute certain anime titles from Kodansha, one of Japan’s largest publishing houses, including the second season of Go! Go! Loser Ranger!

Anime remains a big draw for audiences, with top-performing titles including Sandland: Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama’s series, Disney said in a statement. The company’s investment in Korean and Japanese titles comes as it adjusts its strategy to boost profitability.

Disney is focusing on select Asian markets to help grow local consumer base and attract international audiences, while reducing content investment in Southeast Asia. Its India operation merged with Reliance Industries’ media business to form a joint venture called JioStar.

Carol Choi, executive vice president of original content, said, “Stories produced in Asia Pacific have become an important part of mainstream entertainment consumption – they are world-class productions, with growing global resonance and deeply passionate likes. are.” said Carol Choi, executive vice president of original content. “Our content strategy is focused on curating premium, talent-driven originals from the region.”

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