South Korea's Broadcast Media Telecommunications Commission is starting procedures to select public interest channels and recognise disability welfare channels for 2027-2028.

The commission said on Thursday it will accept applications until Sept. 30 from programme providers for selection as public interest channels and recognition as disability welfare channels.

The commission selects and recognises public interest channels and disability welfare channels every 2 years, considering public value in broadcasting and social need. The validity period for channels selected and recognised this time runs from April 1, 2027 to March 31, 2029.

Pay-TV operators, including cable system operators, satellite broadcasters and internet protocol television providers, are required to carry at least 1 public interest channel and 1 disability welfare channel in each relevant category.

Applicants seeking designation as public interest channels must apply by choosing 1 of 3 categories: social and welfare, science and cultural promotion, or education and regional. Applicants seeking recognition as disability welfare channels must also submit required documents, including an application and an operating plan.

The commission will hold a briefing at the Gwacheon government complex on Aug. 25 to provide detailed guidance on application documents. After applications close, it plans to proceed with selection and recognition by forming a review committee of experts in each field.

Jang Dae-ho (장대호), director general of the commission's Broadcasting Policy Bureau, said he hoped for strong interest and participation from programme providers that produce and schedule programmes that enhance the public nature of broadcasting and expand diversity.