Queen of Tears, The Guardian, My Mister, and more included in the Visionary Selection for CJ ENM’s 30th anniversary

CJ ENM, a South Korean entertainment company, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a spotlight on works that have left an indelible mark on Korean pop culture, as reported by Maeil Business Newspaper on January 20, 2025. The company announced its "Visionary Selection for the 30th Anniversary," honoring creators and projects that have shaped the landscape of broadcasting, film, music, and entertainment.

In the realm of television, CJ ENM highlighted several groundbreaking dramas that set a standard. The Reply series pioneered a new genre by blending nostalgia with slice-of-life narratives. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God redefined fantasy romance.

My Mister and Dear My Friends were recognized for bridging generational gaps and resonating deeply with viewers and critics. Another standout, Queen of Tears, surpassed 600 million hours of global viewing, showcasing the unique storytelling power of K-dramas.

In addition to recognizing individuals who have redefined creativity since 2020, CJ ENM is celebrating a "Beginnery Selection" this year, focusing on works that catalyzed paradigm shifts in the cultural content industry.

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CJ ENM Visionary Selection for reality shows and movies

Among the celebrated titles are iconic films such as Joint Security Area (JSA), Snowpiercer, and Parasite. These works were pivotal in altering global perceptions of Korean cinema. JSA tackled the sensitive subject of inter-Korean relations through a humanistic lens, becoming a turning point in Korean film history.

Snowpiercer, with its unique dystopian narrative and philosophical undertones, marked South Korea’s debut in global blockbuster filmmaking. Meanwhile, Parasite made history as the first non-English-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, alongside three other Oscars in 2020. The film’s biting critique of class disparities solidified its place as a masterpiece of Korean cinema.

Shows like Grandpas Over Flowers introduced a fresh genre of senior travel reality, while New Journey to the West revolutionized web-based entertainment. You Quiz on the Block has become a beloved talk show, praised for its thoughtful and character-driven interviews.

Music and performance programs, including MAMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards), Show Me the Money, and Street Woman Fighter, were celebrated for creating new trends in their respective fields. Additionally, King’s Boots, a musical co-produced globally, garnered international acclaim, winning prestigious awards such as the Tony and Olivier Awards.

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How is CJ ENM planning to celebrate its 30th anniversary?

The company plans to use its 30th anniversary as a springboard for future innovations, focusing on content investment, global intellectual property (IP) expansion, and exploring new genres.

“Our Visionary Selection not only reflects CJ ENM’s legacy but also the cultural originality that Korean pop culture has cultivated over the past three decades,” a company representative stated. “We aim to continue delivering compelling IPs that captivate audiences worldwide.”

The company is organizing various events and special programming. A "Special Hall" on its streaming platform TVING will feature selected works that have defined its legacy. TV channels such as tvN, OCN, and Mnet will also showcase curated content during the Lunar New Year holidays. Additionally, offline events will provide audiences with opportunities to connect directly with CJ ENM’s celebrated projects and creators.