종합편성채널 출범 이후 심야 토크쇼의 변화 연구

Abstract

This study analyzes talk shows, a genre of TV programming constantly loved in the rapidly changing media market. Although broadcast stations have produced and programmed talk shows since the beginning of their operations, not enough studies were done to shed light on their importance. In keeping with the growing need for more research on talk programs, this study chronologically categorizes characteristics of talk shows to date, five years after the launch of the general programming channels, with a focus on shows aired between 11 and 12 at night.

This study seeks to answer the following questions: 1) What is the status of late-night talk shows on each channel? 2) Did the launch of the general programming channels bring about any changes to the late-night talk shows? 3) What impacts the changes to the late-night talk shows?

In the early 1980s when talk programs first appeared on TV, most of them were formal, standardized and education-oriented. It was not until the mid-1980s when elements of entertainment were incorporated into the programming. This trend became rapidly popular in the 1990s with the emergence of star-dependent shows. In the 2000s, the scene was dominated by variety talk shows.

Today (as of 18 September 2016), KBS talk shows tend to deal with general issues while MBC has more music in its shows. JTBC centers on current affairs whereas MBN shows appear targeting middle-aged and senior viewers. Channel A focuses on entertainment issues while TV Chosun centers on politics and North Korea. The terrestrial stations tend to produce “people-centric” shows whereas the general programming channels gravitate toward “issue-centric” shows.

Since the launch of the general programming stations, the conventional style talk shows have been nowhere to be found anymore whereas exploratory programs, posing as entertainment, grew in number. Furthermore, issues chatted about on shows have grown more diverse in greater detail. Viewers’ roles and influence increased as well.

In terms of casting, there are few shows today that are hosted by a female MC. Most shows hold group talks with multiple panelists. Another big change is identified in the composition of the panel, which is often filled with either experts or total strangers to the issue at hand.

As to the subjects, today’s shows tend to chat about one episode and quickly shift the focus to the next, rather than talking about one issue for an extend time. They provide prompt feedback on viewers’ demands and hot issues and attach greater importance to the “fun” aspect of the show.

Their efforts are further aided by the captions and computer graphics of various styles, aimed at maximizing audio and visual effects on their viewers.

These changes are driven by multiple factors: social situation, content, technology and broadcasting environment. Talk shows have evolved to meet the changes of the times, and are heavily influenced by who hosts the show, who the guest is and what is to be mainly discussed. Advances in media technology have transformed the way the talk programs are produced. Viewers’ demands are reflected in the programming more promptly than ever. Amid the shrinking market in the changing environment for broadcasters, the talk programs have undergone changes to their categorization from one genre to another and the composition of personnel on the show. Producers need to consider all these factors in programming future talk shows. Researchers need to continue their endeavor to study talk programs.