South Korea’s three biggest TV networks are preparing for a major ratings battle on June 3 during the nationwide local elections.
KBS, MBC and SBS will launch special election night programs packed with advanced technology and live analysis. In recent years, election coverage has become a key competition among broadcasters.
This year, the networks are focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and extended reality (XR) to attract viewers and explain election results.
KBS will host its election night program at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul for the first time. The broadcaster plans to turn the popular cultural venue into a symbol of democracy. A special stage near the museum’s Mirror Pond will represent public opinion.
Museum artifacts will also help explain voting trends across different regions. Inside the studio, a giant LED screen will display voter turnout and election results using AI powered 3D graphics. Close races will be shown through AI created videos inspired by historical dramas. Political experts and experienced commentators will provide live analysis throughout the night.
SBS is placing a strong focus on AI technology. The broadcaster is working with OpenAI Korea, the company behind ChatGPT in the country. Its AI Situation Room will use GPT 5.5 and Codex technology to improve election result predictions.
A statistics team from Seoul National University helped upgrade the system for better data analysis. SBS will also feature video artwork by AI artist Choi Se-hoon. The broadcaster plans to introduce an AI Election Secretary chatbot, XR graphics and interactive segments like " K-Villian Hunters", and the dance-themed “National Assembly Challenge” designed for online audiences. Veteran politicians will also join live debates to discuss the election outcome.
MBC is relying on popular guests and advanced visual effects to engage viewers. The program will feature Kim Sun-tae, known as Chungju Man, who became famous for promoting local government through social media.Science communicator Orbit and French television personality Fabien Corbineau will also appear on the broadcast. MBC’s studio will include a large LED screen and a rotating LED cube. These features will be used to create immersive AR visuals and present election results in a more engaging way.
Each broadcaster is trying new ideas to attract more viewers and stand out
