CNN International will premiere K-Everything, a new original series hosted and executive produced by Tony Award-nominated actor Daniel Dae Kim, on May 9, the network has announced.
The four-episode series explores South Korea’s growing global cultural influence, examining the rise of K-pop, K-dramas, Korean cinema, food, and beauty through an immersive storytelling format. The episodes will air throughout the month of May.
“It’s both a personal and professional thrill to be able to showcase Korea through our series, K-Everything,” said Daniel Dae Kim. “There’s never been more interest in its people and culture, so it feels like the perfect time to explore the dynamics of its success. Whether you’re already a K-expert, or a newbie, we hope you’ll be able to gain a unique and fresh perspective on a place that means so much to me.”
The series follows Kim as he travels across South Korea to understand the forces behind the country’s cultural rise. In Seoul, he meets leading K-pop artists to explore how the genre built a global fanbase. The show also looks at the evolution of Korean cinema from an era of censorship to international recognition, including Oscar wins and the global popularity of K-dramas on streaming platforms.
The programme also highlights Korean cuisine, featuring a kimchi festival in Pyeongchang and examining how Korean food has influenced global dining — from street food culture to Michelin-starred restaurants. The final episode focuses on the country’s beauty industry, exploring how innovation helped South Korea emerge as a global cosmetics leader.
“The global rise of Korean culture is one of the most exciting stories of our time and a powerful example of Korean soft power” said Ellana Lee, Group Senior Vice President, GM APAC, and Global Head of Productions for CNN International. “Through Daniel Dae Kim’s perspective, K-Everything brings CNN International audiences inside the creativity and innovation driving Korea’s influence across music, film, food and beauty, and why it continues to captivate people around the world.”
The series is executive produced by Kim along with Amy Entelis, Ellana Lee, Jon Jensen, Katie Hinman and Ryan Smith for CNN Original Series. It marks the first collaboration between CNN Originals and the network’s APAC-based Global Productions teams.
CNN said the show will also feature a dedicated digital hub showcasing additional social and digital content focused on Korean creativity and cultural impact.
K-Everything continues CNN Original Series’ tradition of host-led programming focused on global culture and human stories, available through the CNN app.
The series is sponsored by Hyundai Motor Company, one of South Korea’s largest corporations, whose global expansion CNN said reflects the country’s broader innovation journey.
K-Everything premieres May 9 at 4pm GST on CNN International, with repeat telecasts scheduled for May 10 and May 11.
