We see MBC! (day 2)

Today, we visited Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC). MBC is the oldest television and radio communication network in Korea. It is also one of the top four major networks here as well.  Being avid watchers of MBC variety shows such as “We Got Married”, some of our group members were found to be more prepared for this trip than the others. So, how did it go?

At the lobby of MBC, we waited for our guide to join us amidst our speculation on whether we could be able to see any celebrities today. Though unable to speak English, the guide from MBC gave us a very interesting tour – with the help from Mr Kwon, who acted as our ad-hoc interpreter. The first place was MBC’s News Broadcasting Centre, which we unfortunately were unable to go inside due to actual recording going on.

Next, we went to the radio floor. There were recording studios on one side and on the opposite side, the radio studios where most of the radio sessions are produced live. We managed to see a band recording their song and the famous Bae Chul Soo, singer-turned-DJ, recording his radio show, “Music Camp”. Bae Chul Soo is regarded as the number one DJ in Korea and is loved by his Korean fans. Our guide then told us about how radio technology has advanced over the years, to the point that now listeners can even ‘see’ what they’re listening to through videos taken of the radio show itself. These videos are posted up on the Internet for Korean and international fans to view. How cool is that!

Our third stop of the day was a wall of MBC’s Radio Golden Mouth. This wall serves as a dedication to the best, most passionate DJs in MBC. Established in 1996, this award appreciates the DJ’s who have left a deep impression on their listeners. KIM2CHI felt that it was super-unique to have golden imprints of the various DJ’s mouths and jaws!

Our last stop for the day was the different drama/variety show sets in the building. The set that struck me the most was the ‘We Got Married’ one! I didn’t expect the set to be that small, but our guide told us a wide-angle lens is used to make their sets seem bigger and nicer.

Overall, our visit to MBC was informative and it was a shame it didn’t last longer. However, on a brighter note, we’ll be going to KBS Drama Centre soon, and that’s something we’re looking forward to!

Done by: KIM2CHI

Kimberly Ho

Kimberly Fong

Lulu Tay Xin YI

Carmen Chia

Kelly-Angel Paulose

Pheobe Low