San Francisco-based streaming platform Twitch, owned by Amazon, has revealed its decision to withdraw from the Korean market due to substantial networking fees as the primary factor.

Despite expressing disappointment from local users and content creators, Twitch faces financial challenges, while domestic competitors are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on the void.

According to Twitch spokesperson Clancy, operational costs in Korea have become "prohibitively expensive."

Despite implementing cost-cutting measures like exploring a peer-to-peer model for source quality streams and capping resolutions at 720p, these efforts have proven inadequate.

Clancy elaborated, stating,, "While we have managed to lower costs through these initiatives, our network fees in Korea remain 10 times higher than in most other countries. Operating in Korea has become financially unsustainable for Twitch."

As Twitch bids farewell to Korea, local competitors, including Naver's upcoming streaming platform 'CHZZK,' are poised to seize the market opportunity, intensifying competition in the region.

In response to the news, AfricaTV's CEO, Jung Chanyong, expressed optimism about the evolving landscape, stating, "With the entry of Naver, a leading IT company, into our live streaming industry, we believe it's time for further development. Competition will intensify, and it's a crucial period for AfricaTV to cultivate our unique strengths."

Amidst these changes, AfricaTV is rebranding itself as ‘SOOP’and updating its terminology to align with the shifting industry dynamics.

The platform's unique terms like 'BJ' (individual online broadcaster) and 'Star Balloons' (cash gifts from users) are also undergoing changes to provide a fresh identity and alleviate negative perceptions.

AfricaTV has implemented proactive policies, including the integration of Twitch accounts and recognition of streamers' broadcast hours through 'Twitch Welcome.'

The emergence of Naver's gaming streaming platform, 'CHZZK,' presents a new variable in the competitive landscape.

Leveraging Naver's extensive portal power, CHZZK offers a user interface and experience similar to Twitch, making it more familiar to existing Twitch users.

As AfricaTV navigates these changes, it envisions a global presence, building on its experience in esports and league operations.

In conclusion, Twitch’s exit from the Korean market signals a significant shift in the online streaming video industry.

As local platforms vie for dominance, it becomes paramount to observe closely and discern which contender will emerge as the new leader.

The unfolding developments make it clear: the race for the next No.1 market share company in the online streaming video industry is one to watch attentively.

Andrew Hwan Choi 

Grade 8

Eaglebrook School