Hit competition format “The Traitors” is set to get a Korean adaptation, Variety has learned.
Distributor All3Media International have inked a deal with production companies Luyworks Media (“Street Woman Fighter” and “Show Me The Money”) and format specialists Something Special for a Korean version of the popular series.
“The Traitors” first launched just three years ago in the Netherlands (where it was titled “De Verraders”), created and developed by Marc Pos and IDTV creative director Jasper Hoogendoorn in cooperation with RTL Creative Unit.
It has since spawned over 30 versions around the world including, most recently, an Indian version for Prime Video and an Irish version for local broadcaster RTE.
The U.S. version of the show, now in its second season, recently picked up two Emmy awards and has been commissioned for a further three seasons while the BAFTA-winning U.K. version has confirmed a fourth season as well as a celebrity version.
The psychological competition series, which sees strangers compete in a remote location for a cash prize, has also introduced a range of merchandise including board games, card games and apparel. An immersive experience is also set to open in the U.K.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Luyworks Media and Something Special to bring ‘The Traitors’ to Korean audiences,” said All3Media International’s Ziran (Tony) Tang, sales VP for Asia. “‘The Traitors’ is a phenomenal format in the industry, with over 30 versions worldwide we’re excited to see it take shape in Korea—one of the most competitive markets for formats. We are confident that we will deliver a high-quality local version to Korean viewers.
Yul Han, CEO of Luyworks Media, said “We are very excited to be producing the Korean version of ‘The Traitors,’ possibly the most beloved format around the world. We want to produce the favorite series not only for Korea, but for the whole of Asia.”
Jin Woo Hwang, president of Something Special added: “Something Special has always been the key bridge and developer of connecting international formats with the best Korean talent. Delivering phenomenal shows in the unscripted scene, Luyworks Media is definitely the best-in-class production company for the Korean version of ‘The Traitors.’”