AI-based content localization company Twigfarm (brand name: LETR WORKS) has been awarded the “AI Technology-Based Domestic and International Broadcast Content Localization and Remastering (Subtitle) Support Project”, led by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Communications Agency (KCA).
This project aims to remake K-content into multiple languages, facilitating its expansion into global markets.
The initiative includes major Korean broadcasters and production companies such as ENA, KBS Media, Studio Genie, J Wonder, Studio S, and WEMAD. On the global side, eight international partners—including SBS International, MBC America, KBFD TV, and Happy World TV—are participating.
A total of 10,900 minutes of broadcast content (4,900 minutes domestic, 6,000 minutes overseas) will be re-produced with subtitles in Korean, English, Spanish, and Chinese.
The genres covered are diverse, including drama, entertainment, educational programs, and radio content. The project was finalized in August 2025 and is scheduled to run from September to November.
Twigfarm will utilize its proprietary localization platform LETR WORKS, implementing a hybrid method that combines speech recognition, machine translation, automatic sync adjustment, and native speaker post-editing—aiming to maximize both efficiency and quality.
An industry expert stated:
“What matters most in subtitle localization isn’t just automation, but the post-editing process tailored to native speakers. Twigfarm’s approach demonstrates real potential for application in the global content market.”
This project also adheres strictly to global OTT subtitle specifications and accessibility standards. In particular, it provides SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing), which include speaker identifiers, sound descriptions, and visual cues. This feature goes beyond simple translation by enhancing both accessibility and viewer immersion.
Twigfarm has already accumulated significant experience by working with SBS and ODK on large-scale subtitle localization projects, processing hundreds of thousands of minutes annually.
Additionally, the company has proven its technical capabilities and timely delivery through its participation in the AI data construction projects by MSIT and NIA, as well as through direct subtitle delivery to global OTT platforms.
The company has also strengthened its security management framework, achieving four international security certifications: ISO 27001, 27017, 27018, and 27701. It further ensures data protection through DRM, encrypted storage, regular security training, and NDAs—ensuring the trustworthiness required for public sector projects.
Industry observers expect that Twigfarm will contribute significantly to the expansion of K-content audiences across borders through this project. With the global OTT market at the center of content consumption, standardized subtitle localization has become a necessary condition for success. However, challenges remain—such as the limitations of AI translation, difficulty in conveying cultural nuances, and ensuring consistency in native review.
Kyudong Choi, Head of Division at Twigfarm, stated:
“This project is an opportunity to demonstrate that AI-based localization technology can be effectively commercialized in the global market.
We will work with domestic and international broadcasters to strengthen the impact of K-content worldwide.”
Source: StartupN (Korean)