CBC Kids Original GANGNAM PROJECT Comes to CBC Gem

Celebrating the vibrant world of K-pop culture, CBC Kids is bringing Canadian audiences GANGNAM PROJECT.

Gangnam Project is a new coming-of-age series co-commissioned with CBBC and produced by Pillango Productions and Aircraft Pictures. The CBC Kids original offers audiences an exclusive glimpse of what it takes to become a K-pop superstar. All 10 episodes begin streaming Friday, March 8 on CBC Gem.

Told through the eyes of 16-year-old Korean-Canadian Hannah Shin (Julia Kim Caldwell). Gangnam Project follows her journey into the world of K-pop. There every dance move, every note sung and every social media post is precisely choreographed, practiced and perfected. This leads her to discover new things about herself with each new experience.

A Fan of K-Pop

Julia had this to say about the new project:

“I’ve always been a massive K-pop fan. For me, K-pop was a way to connect to the Korean heritage on my mum’s side and I love how it’s been a bridge for people to discover more about Korean culture. I’m so excited for anyone who’s always been a fan of K-pop, like myself, to get to live out their trainee fantasy with Hannah’s journey, and for newcomers to fall in love with everything K-pop. Being a part of GANGNAM PROJECT has been a dream come true for me and I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”

Marie McCann, Senior Director, Children’s Content, CBC Kids spoke about sharing Korean culture with the world:

“From the beginning, we’ve been excited to bring Gangnam Project to life for audiences in Canada and around the world. Sarah Haasz and Romeo Candido’s storytelling has tapped into K-pop culture in an authentic way, with an incredible soundtrack performed by a talented young cast, while also managing to be thoughtful and relatable, with a sense of humour. This fun and upbeat series will appeal to viewers of all ages.”

“Korea is the modern centre of the creative world and K-pop, K-drama and K-cartoons continue to rise in popularity across the globe, especially amongst younger audiences. That’s why we’re bringing CBBC viewers their very own K-pop show combining brilliant, high-quality storytelling with this huge cultural phenomenon!” said Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 7+, BBC Children’s and Education.

Gangnam Project

Keen to learn more about her heritage, Hannah embarks on a journey to Korea. There she takes on a tutoring role at the renowned K-pop academy OME. However, her visit takes an unexpected turn when her infectious enthusiasm and undeniable musical talents catch the attention of OME’s CEO. Before long, Hannah finds herself transitioning from tutor to trainee as she embarks on a transformative path fuelled by her unique potential. GANGNAM PROJECT also explores the journey of Hannah’s older brother, Leo (Taran Kim), from aimless slacker to disciplined go-getter, as well as revealing a shocking family secret.

This coming-of-age series is full of heart, culture and humour. While dealing with themes of identity, belonging, acceptance, and discovering your truth. This is all set to an original soundtrack composed by recording artist, songwriter, producer and musician, August Rigo. Rigo wrote songs for global K-pop sensations BTS, “U Smile” for Justin Bieber and “Gotta Be You” for One Direction.

Producer Credits

CBC Kids and CBBC co-commissioned Gangnam Project. Pillango Productions and Aircraft Pictures produce with the financial participation of Shaw Rocket Fund and the Canada Media Fund. It is executive produced by co-showrunners Sarah Haasz and Romeo Candido. Aircraft’s Anthony Leo and Andrew Rosen also executive produce. Candido, Justin Wu, and Gloria Kim directs the series. Federation Kids & Family is handling worldwide sales.

SOURCE: cbc.ca