Coronavirus led to increased consumption for most cultural content: Kocca

The coronavirus pandemic led to increased consumption for most cultural content in 2020 according to a report on the consumption patterns of cartoons, animations, characters, films and music from the Korea Creative Content Agency (Kocca).

The report, which came out on Dec. 18, was based on a survey conducted on 3,000 people across the country from July 28 to Aug. 26.

Digital content — especially the viewership of webtoons, mobile characters and animations through smart devices — all saw high numbers due to Covid-19. Music consumption also rose, especially the viewership of music-related videos as well as online concerts. More people listened to music at home, but less on public transportation.

Among those who viewed online concerts, 39.3 percent answered they were willing to pay again, hinting to possible business for online concert organizers in the future.

However, there was a sharp decline in both moviegoers and concertgoers. Character consumption at character shops also plummeted, as well as animation viewings at theaters. Printed cartoons also saw a decline, as many people prefer to read them at rental shops or comic book cafes.

The full report can be viewed on Kocca’s official website, www.kocca.kr.