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Genie TV
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Genie TV
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Genie TV (Korean: 지니 TV; formerly Olleh TV) is an IPTV service provided by South Korea's main telecom operator KT. It broadcasts VOD including TV programs, movies, children's programs, sports, documentaries and animations.

On 4 October 2022, KT rebranded its IPTV service as Genie TV, 11 years after the Olleh TV brand was introduced. The rebranding is part of the telecom's aggressive effort to push forward its content business as growth in the traditional telecom sector slows.[1] [2]

Olleh TV for PlayStation 3

[edit]

Since November 20, 2007, following a partnership between KT and Sony Computer Entertainment, Olleh TV is made available for PlayStation 3 owners in South Korea.[3][4] Once the PlayStation 3's firmware version 2.10 installed in the system, a new icon, called "TV", appears in the XMB. The user is asked to agree a terms of service form then to download the 13MB Olleh TV player.[5] Olleh TV is also a provider of Spanish television programming. Olleh TV signed a deal with HDTV Inc. to bring three new markets into the Spanish broadcasting circuit.

References

[edit]
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Genie TV

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Genie TV is an IPTV service provided by , South Korea's largest telecommunications operator, delivering channels, video-on-demand (VOD) content, and integrated streaming options to subscribers across the country. Launched in 2011 as Olleh TV, the platform was rebranded to Genie TV on October 4, 2022, as part of KT's strategy to evolve it into a comprehensive media portal that aggregates broadcast channels, on-demand videos, and partnerships with global OTT services like Disney+. As of June 2025, Genie TV had 9.49 million subscribers, securing the top position in Korea's IPTV through innovations such as AI-powered content recommendations and multi-language subtitle support. The service offers more than 260 live channels and up to 300,000 VOD titles, spanning movies, dramas, children's programs, and original KT Studio Genie productions, with flexible subscription plans starting at 11,000 KRW per month and customizable add-ons for premium content. Recent expansions include collaborations with to distribute Korean content globally via and the introduction of AI agents for personalized viewing experiences, enhancing its role in South Korea's digital entertainment ecosystem.

History

Origins and Launch as Olleh TV

KT Corporation, South Korea's leading telecommunications provider, originated its IPTV service in September 2007 with the nationwide launch of Mega TV, which delivered video-on-demand content and interactive features over its high-speed network and was made available to approximately 6.5 million Megapass subscribers, with initial IPTV subscriber targets of 300,000 for 2007. This initiative marked KT's strategic shift toward integrated media services, leveraging its dominant position in fixed-line internet to compete in the emerging digital entertainment sector. Mega TV initially focused on on-demand programming and limited linear channels, setting the foundation for expanded offerings amid growing demand for IP-based . In April 2009, KT rebranded Mega TV as Qook TV as part of a broader unification of its home services under the Qook brand, which encompassed phone, internet, and television bundles to streamline and efforts. The rebranding emphasized bundled packages and enhanced content, including partnerships for international programming, positioning Qook TV as a key pillar in KT's diversification beyond traditional . The service launched as Olleh TV in 2011, coinciding with KT's introduction of the Olleh unified brand for its fixed-line and operations, which aimed to create a cohesive identity across consumer services. Olleh TV expanded on prior offerings by integrating live channels, a substantial video-on-demand library, and interactive functionalities such as real-time subtitling and personalization tools, targeting the burgeoning IPTV market in . This relaunch solidified KT's role as a media platform provider, rapidly growing to over 3 million subscribers by the end of 2011 and contributing to KT's growth in the pay-TV sector.

Rebranding to Genie TV

In October 2022, South Korean telecommunications company rebranded its IPTV service from Olleh TV to , marking a significant evolution 11 years after Olleh TV's initial launch in 2011. The , announced on , 2022, aimed to position KT as a comprehensive media portal amid slowing growth in its core telecom business and intensifying from global over-the-top (OTT) services like and Disney+. By unifying its media affiliates under the brand—already used for music streaming and other content platforms—KT sought to create a cohesive that integrates live , video-on-demand (VOD), and third-party streaming services. The rebranding introduced a revamped designed to enhance and , featuring five main categories: movies and dramas (VOD), live channels, Kids Land for family content, Genie Apps for integrated services, and a dedicated OTT section. Key enhancements included AI-driven content recommendations, capabilities, and improved search accuracy, allowing users to access not only KT's library but also rival platforms like , , and directly through the service—even on non-smart TVs. The visual and verbal brand identity was completely renewed to reflect this shift toward an all-encompassing media platform, emphasizing AI-based curation and broader content partnerships with entities like and . As part of the strategy, KT planned to roll out the updated interface starting in October 2022, followed by a new in early 2023 and full integration of content by the same period. With approximately 9 million subscribers to Olleh TV as of late 2021, the rebranding targeted expansion to 10 million users while aiming for 5 trillion won (about $3.5 billion) in annual content by 2025, up from 3.2 trillion won in 2021. This move was intended to solidify KT's position as Korea's leading media and content group, with projected annual content sales reaching $4.1 billion by 2025 through mergers like Seezn and . Following the rebranding, Genie TV achieved a peak of 9.5 million subscribers by September 2023. As of mid-2025, subscriber numbers remained stable around 9 million, while content-related revenues continued to grow, with KT's media subsidiaries reporting 6% year-on-year increase in Q2 2025, though the full 5 trillion won target status is not detailed in recent reports.

Services and Content

Channel Lineup

Genie TV offers a comprehensive selection of over 250 live channels as part of its standard ModeunG plan, encompassing a wide range of programming tailored to diverse viewer interests in . This lineup includes major domestic broadcasters, entertainment options, and specialized content, all delivered in high definition to ensure quality viewing experiences. The service prioritizes accessibility across various devices, with channels optimized for IPTV delivery. The channel offerings are structured into basic and popular packages, with the Slim plan providing 221 basic channels and additional popular selections bringing the total to 226 or more depending on the subscription tier. Representative examples from the popular channels include OCN for premium movie content, and AsiaN for Asian international programming, for foreign dramas, The Golf Channel for niche sports coverage, and Disney Junior for family-oriented children's shows. Sports programming is enhanced through dedicated add-on packages, featuring channels such as SpoTV Prime (Channel 190), SpoTV Prime 2 (Channel 191), and SpoTV Prime Plus (Channel 192), which broadcast live events including KBO and international competitions. Additionally, innovative themed channels like #848 and #849 provide 24/7 ad-free AI-generated travel videos, focusing on destinations such as for Olympic-themed content or global spots like New York and for seasonal vacations.
CategoryExamplesNotes
MoviesPremium films and series
InternationalChannel CHINA, AsiaN, Asian and Latin American content
Sports, Prime seriesLive events and niche coverage
Children'sDisney JuniorFamily programming
Themed/Interactive#848, #849 (AI Travel View)Ad-free, AI-curated videos

Video on Demand Library

The () of Genie TV, provided by , offers subscribers access to a vast collection of on-demand content, including movies, TV series, documentaries, entertainment programs, music videos, and animations. As of recent service plans, the encompasses approximately 300,000 VOD titles across various genres, enabling users to content at their without adhering to traditional broadcast schedules. This extensive catalog positions Genie TV as one of South Korea's leading IPTV platforms for diverse viewing options. Key categories within the library emphasize both domestic and international selections, such as recent Korean dramas and films produced by KT Studio , alongside Hollywood titles from six major studios. For family-oriented content, dedicated sections like Kids Land provide educational and animated programs tailored for children, supporting interactive learning experiences. The library also includes catch-up services for recent TV episodes, allowing replays of live broadcasts shortly after airing. Through strategic partnerships, the VOD offerings have expanded significantly; for instance, the Genie TV Disney+ All-G plan integrates approximately 160,000 titles from Disney+, encompassing global OTT content in genres like and family entertainment, accessible directly via the IPTV interface. Additionally, a free streaming tier called G LIVE delivers around 24,000 ad-supported VOD items, including programming from the main library, streamed in a continuous format similar to linear TV. Original productions, such as Korean dramas like "" and comedies like "New Recruit," further enrich the selection, with select titles available internationally via collaborations like . Users can navigate the library through intuitive search and recommendation tools, with options for rental or purchase of premium titles not included in base subscriptions. Content availability varies by plan, with higher tiers unlocking UHD streaming for supported movies and series.

Key Features

AI and Personalization

Genie TV, provided by , integrates to deliver personalized viewing experiences tailored to individual user preferences and behaviors. The platform leverages on-device AI processing in its set-top boxes to analyze viewing and , enabling features that adapt content delivery dynamically. This approach aims to reduce user effort in content discovery and enhance engagement by prioritizing relevant recommendations and automated adjustments. A core component is the AI Curation system, which processes over 3 billion points from KT's approximately 9.4 million subscribers (as of ) to generate hyper-personalized content suggestions. By examining viewing patterns, including subtle shifts such as family composition changes or developmental stages for children's programming, it recommends shows with high scores—for instance, suggesting documentaries like "Curious Story Y" at 98% match based on past interests. This feature operates across live channels, video-on-demand (VOD), and over-the-top (OTT) services like , streamlining access to preferred content in as few as two steps. Further personalization is achieved through AI Selection and AI Selective Viewing, which allow users to isolate specific elements within broadcasts or recordings. Users can select favorite , singers, or even songs and clips to generate custom scene compilations, such as thumbnails featuring a particular character from a reality show like "I’m Solo." These tools, powered by neural processing units (NPUs) for efficient on-device computation, were introduced in stages starting in 2023 and expanded in late 2024 with the launch of 8K-capable set-top boxes. Additionally, the platform's AI agent, launched in the first half of 2025 in collaboration with , supports conversational search using large language models, enabling natural queries to skip to highlights or relevant scenes. Environmental and habitual adaptations further enhance , with AI automatically adjusting screen brightness to ambient light conditions and activating the TV upon detecting the user's return home, displaying favored channels. Audio optimization tailors sound profiles for genres like dramas or sports, emphasizing clarity, while background screens offer contextual suggestions such as updates or recommendations during idle periods. These capabilities, rolled out in the fourth quarter of 2024, underscore Genie TV's focus on seamless, intuitive interactions without requiring manual interventions.

Multi-language and Accessibility Options

Genie TV provides real-time multi-language subtitle support for select Korean television channels, enabling viewers from diverse linguistic backgrounds to access content without additional fees. This service is available on UHD set-top boxes, Genie devices, and Table TV for Home and Biz plans, covering 19 channels including , MBN, KTV, Yonhap News, Multi-cultural TV, tvN, , MBC every1, MBC Dramanet, Channel A, KBS1, KBS2, KBS Drama, JTBC2, KBS Joy, Olive, O tvN, XtvN, and OnStyle. are offered in 12 languages: English, Japanese, Chinese, German, French, Spanish, Vietnamese, Uzbekistani, Thai, Filipino (Tagalog), Mongolian, and Russian. Launched initially in with support for eight languages, the feature expanded to 12 languages by mid-2024, including additions of Mongolian and Russian, to better serve international audiences in . To activate multi-language subtitles, users navigate to the Home menu, select Settings > Channel/VOD > Subtitle, toggle to 'ON', choose the preferred language, and save; alternatively, on a live channel, press the Confirm key, access the Context menu, select Subtitle > 'ON', and select the language. This real-time enhances inclusivity for non-Korean speakers, such as expatriates and multicultural families, by providing synchronized text overlays during live broadcasts and select on-demand content. For accessibility, Genie TV incorporates features tailored to hearing- and visually-impaired users, particularly through its GiGA Genie set-top box. Hearing-impaired viewers benefit from customizable closed captions, allowing adjustments to font size, color, transparency, background color, line spacing, and position to improve and reduce visual fatigue. These enhancements, introduced in under the former Olleh TV branding, were developed in collaboration with the Korea Communications Commission to promote an equitable viewing experience. The Genie TV 4 further advances this with automatic subtitling generation and dynamic adjustments for brightness and volume based on ambient conditions and content audio levels. Visually impaired users receive voice guidance support, including audio feedback for voice commands (e.g., channel changes and volume control), navigation through menu screens, and electronic program guide (EPG) information. Activation occurs via device settings or natural voice recognition, ensuring seamless interaction without reliance on visual interfaces. These options align with broader efforts to create barrier-free media consumption, as emphasized by KT's Media Platform Business Division.

Platforms and Compatibility

Set-top Boxes and Hardware

Genie TV's set-top boxes (STBs) form the core hardware for delivering IPTV services, integrating advanced processing capabilities, AI features, and high-resolution video support tailored for South Korean broadband networks. Developed by , these devices evolved from the initial GiGA Genie launch in 2017, which introduced an AI-based TV STB with voice control for IoT devices. Subsequent models emphasize eco-friendly manufacturing, with the STB A series achieving cumulative production of 1 million eco-friendly units by 2024 through reduced use and recycled materials. The lineup includes compact and premium models, all running OS for seamless access to OTT content, integration (supported on GiGA Genie 1, 2, 3, A, UHD2, and UHD4 since 2022), and services like Assistant and Cast. Hardware focuses on efficient SoCs for 4K/8K decoding, with connectivity options including 2.1, Ethernet, , and 5.0 for smart home ecosystems. Key features across models include /Atmos support, L1 DRM for HD streaming, and / codec compatibility for efficient bandwidth use.
ModelLaunch YearSoCCPUGPURAM/StorageKey FeaturesDimensions/Weight
STB A (GiGA Genie A)2022Amlogic S905X4Quad-core 2.0 GHz ARM Cortex-A55ARM Mali-G31 MP23 GB / 8 GBCompact design, Android TV 11 (upgradable to 14), Google Cast/Assistant, IPTV/OTT hybrid135 x 135 x 35 mm / 180 g
STB 3 (GiGA Genie 3)2022Synaptics VideoSmart VS-680Quad-core 2.3 GHz ARM Cortex-A73Imagination PowerVR GE99203 GB / 16 GB4K UHD support, Chromecast built-in, Google Assistant, Android TV 11133 x 133 x 174.5 mm / 980 g
STB 4 (Genie TV STB 4)2024Amlogic S928XPenta-core 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A76/A55ARM Mali-G57 MC26 GB / 32 GB8K UHD with AI upscaling via NPU, on-device AI (sign language interpreter, voice enhancement, scene search), far-field mics, Android TV 14, Dolby Atmos/Vision1040 g (stand included)
The A serves as an affordable, lightweight option for secondary TVs, prioritizing energy efficiency and basic 4K streaming without compromising on codec support. In contrast, the STB 3 represented a mid-generation upgrade with higher clock speeds for smoother multitasking and initial AI personalization tied to KT's Genie ecosystem. The flagship STB 4, launched in November 2024, introduces groundbreaking 8K capabilities—the first for an IPTV STB—using an NPU for real-time upscaling of lower-resolution content and adaptive features like automatic brightness adjustment based on viewing habits. It also integrates far-field microphones for hands-free control, enhancing with AI-driven sign language during emergency broadcasts and dialogue enhancement for clearer audio. All models support KT's infrastructure, ensuring low-latency delivery of live channels and VOD, with modular designs like interchangeable covers on the STB 4 for aesthetic customization. Mobile apps also support casting Genie TV content to compatible smart TVs from brands like and over , extending without additional hardware.

Mobile and Web Applications

Genie TV provides a dedicated mobile application, known as "지니 TV 모바일," available for both Android and devices, enabling subscribers to access IPTV services beyond the set-top box. Launched by , the app supports viewing of (VOD) content, allowing seamless continuation of playback started on the home TV, and partial streaming of live channels when connected to a KT internet network. It has garnered over 1 million downloads on and requires iOS 13.0 or later for Apple devices, with a file size of approximately 180 MB. Key functionalities include a built-in for managing the —such as changing channels, adjusting volume, and powering on/off—along with offline downloading of select VOD titles for viewing without an active connection. Users can browse TV schedules, set viewing reservations with push notifications, and access specialized sections like Kidsland, which offers curated, safe content for children complete with . The app integrates with KT for optimal performance, supporting tablet PCs for larger-screen experiences akin to the main TV interface. Recent updates have enhanced content recommendations and playback stability, though it contains advertisements. For web-based access, Genie TV does not offer a full-featured browser application for content streaming, prioritizing set-top boxes and mobile apps for video delivery. Instead, subscribers can use KT's official to manage accounts, view program guides, and handle subscriptions, with promotional sites like genietvmobile.com providing app download links and service overviews. Certain add-on services, such as SPOTV NOW, allow PC viewing of specific channels and VOD through dedicated web interfaces, but core Genie TV live and on-demand content remains app-exclusive on non-mobile platforms.

Integration with Gaming Consoles

Genie TV, provided by , does not feature native applications or direct integration with major gaming consoles such as the , Series X/S, or as of November 2025. The service is optimized for KT's ecosystem, prioritizing proprietary hardware over third-party gaming platforms. Users with gaming consoles can access Genie TV content indirectly by connecting the console to a compatible television and switching inputs to a KT set-top box, but this requires separate hardware and does not enable seamless app-based streaming within the console's interface. Instead, Genie TV's compatibility centers on its dedicated Android TV-based set-top boxes, including models like the Genie A and Genie TV 4, which support high-resolution streaming up to 8K UHD and integrate AI features for content recommendations. These devices connect via to any modern TV, allowing users to enjoy live channels, VOD libraries, and bundled services like without needing additional gaming hardware. For mobile and portable access, Genie TV offers dedicated apps for Android and devices, enabling subscribers to stream content over on smartphones, tablets, and compatible smart TVs from brands like . These apps support features such as remote control functionality, channel reservations, and personalized VOD playback, but they are not extendable to gaming console app stores. KT has incorporated gaming elements into its IPTV offerings through cloud-based services like GameBox, launched in , which streams console-quality games directly to Genie TV set-top boxes without requiring physical gaming hardware. This provides an integrated entertainment experience combining TV viewing and casual gaming on the same device, though it operates independently of external consoles.

References

  1. https://globalshop.kt.com/global/tv_sub.do
  2. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2022/10/04/business/industry/Korea-KT-Genie-TV/20221004155309270.html
  3. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-08-11/business/industry/KT-Q2-profit-beats-expectations-on-robust-core-businesses/2373220
  4. https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-electronics-and-kt-studio-genie-partner-to-expand-global-access-to-korean-content-on-samsung-tv-plus
  5. https://www.thepickool.com/kt-unveils-ai-powered-media-strategy-for-genie-tv-platform/
  6. https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/business/companies/20070904/kt-launches-nationwide-iptv-service
  7. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2009/04/08/industry/KT-cooks-up-ways-to-unify-brand-with-QOOK-services/2903273.html
  8. https://www.kedglobal.com/tech%2C-media-telecom/newsView/ked202210050006
  9. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/892450/000119312512188247/d333931d20f.htm
  10. https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20221004003900320
  11. https://ifdesign.com/en/winner-ranking/project/genie-tv-brand-identity-design/572539
  12. https://www.kedglobal.com/entertainment/newsView/ked202310130003
  13. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/kt-corp-kt-q2-2025-070111872.html
  14. https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-it/2025/10/16/HWKHKLTDMVAUFMALRY36VPXBFQ/
  15. https://m.corp.kt.com/eng/html/global/solutions/media.html
  16. https://www.spotv.net/news/news_detail.asp?idx=8651&page=
  17. https://welcon.kocca.kr/mobile/en/support/issue-focus/11
  18. https://koreatechtoday.com/kt-corp-launches-upgraded-genie-tv-tab-3-with-enhanced-features/
  19. https://www.mk.co.kr/en/broadcasting-service/11443365
  20. https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-it/2025/05/28/67PJL2RHRRFUDGL3CK62ZPB5NQ/
  21. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kt.gtv&hl=en_US
  22. https://www.reddit.com/r/Living_in_Korea/comments/14j959y/kt_genie_tv_and_uhd_channels/
  23. https://www.koreaherald.com/article/3847362
  24. https://cm.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2022110413292300859
  25. https://www.beatingthetide.com/p/kt-south-korea-deep-dive-a-telco-without-an-edge
  26. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2024-04-29/business/industry/KT-personalizes-content-through-new-AI-features/2035911
  27. https://globalshop.kt.com/support/supportFaq.do
  28. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2018/10/21/industry/KT-offers-subtitles-in-8-tongues/3054508.html
  29. https://www.telecompaper.com/news/kt-genie-tv-expands-real-time-subtitles-to-12-languages--1506340
  30. https://cm.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2021070209102968499
  31. https://corp.kt.com/archive/ipgrpt/attach/2025/2025_ENG_Archive.pdf
  32. https://www.androidtv-guide.com/pay-tv-provider/kt-giga-genie-a/
  33. https://www.androidtv-guide.com/pay-tv-provider/kt-giga-genie3/
  34. https://www.androidtv-guide.com/pay-tv-provider/kt-genie-tv-stb-4/
  35. https://koreatechtoday.com/kt-launches-worlds-first-8k-ai-enhanced-iptv-set-top-box-with-smart-features/
  36. https://www.red-dot.org/zh/project/genie-tv-set-top-box-4-81689
  37. https://news.samsung.com/kr/kt-genie-tv-samsung-tv-plus
  38. https://apps.apple.com/kr/app/%EC%A7%80%EB%8B%88-tv-%EB%AA%A8%EB%B0%94%EC%9D%BC/id6443873604
  39. https://product.kt.com/wDic/productDetail.do?ItemCode=1163
  40. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kt.padtv.otv&hl=en_US
  41. https://www.genietvmobile.com/
  42. https://product.kt.com/wDic/productDetail.do?ItemCode=1609
  43. https://tv.kt.com/
  44. https://koreatechtoday.com/kt-introduces-gamebox-cloud-based-game-streaming-service/
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