Rakuten VIKI is our number one choice for streaming K-Dramas and Asian movies. It is a super-popular site for free foreign movies and TV for both viewers in and outside the US. It may not be available in every country but certainly a lot of them. Currently they have movies and TV series from Korea, mainland China, Taiwan, and Japan. They also offer variety shows and Kocowa – a streaming service, launched by the partnership of KBS, SBS, and MBC — the three major TV networks in South Korea.
Fans and viewers are very much a part of the VIKI experience – from translating the subtitles (amazing!) to planned watch parties to sharing comments during the video stream. It is a worldwide community of very devoted followers. I’ve probably never seen a more loyal and devoted group of followers on any movie or TV streaming service.
All of us really like Rakuten VIKI. We are amazed at all the high-quality free content that’s available on VIKI. My two favorite free K-Dramas (one is more a thriller) can both be streamed on VIKI. My Mister is a great K-Drama starring IU and Lee Sun Gyun from Parasite. Tell Me What You Saw is an intense thriller about a serial killer on the loose.
Over the years we have watched dozens of free K-dramas – some of the best of them are on our TV page. Mat’s favorite foreign film/TV list includes a number that are available on VIKI. The stories are interesting and entertaining, but we think they also give us a bit of insight into contemporary Asian culture. There are also many period features that give us a bit of a glimpse into the past. We frequently get together to talk about dramas that we are watching. It’s great to hear and see some other perspectives.
Here’s more about the site:
Rakuten Viki: A Global Hub for Asian Entertainment
In the dynamic landscape of streaming services, where the choices seem endless, Rakuten Viki stands out as a global hub for Asian entertainment. Boasting a diverse array of content ranging from Korean dramas to Chinese movies, Rakuten Viki has carved a niche for itself in the hearts of viewers worldwide. With its unique features, community-driven subtitles, and a commitment to bridging cultural gaps, Rakuten Viki has become more than just a streaming platform; it’s a cultural phenomenon that celebrates the richness of Asian storytelling.
Origins and Growth:
Rakuten Viki was founded in 2007 by Razmig Hovaghimian, Changseong Ho, and Jiwon Moon. Originally named Viki, the platform gained traction for its innovative approach to subtitles. Rather than relying solely on professional translators, Viki engaged its viewers, forming a community of volunteers who provided subtitles in numerous languages. This approach not only facilitated multilingual accessibility but also created a sense of collective contribution among viewers.
In 2013, Rakuten, a Japanese e-commerce giant, acquired Viki, leading to its rebranding as Rakuten Viki. This acquisition marked a significant step forward, providing the platform with resources and support to expand its content library and reach a broader audience.
A Diverse Content Library:
What sets Rakuten Viki apart is its commitment to offering a diverse range of Asian content. From the heart-fluttering romantic dramas of South Korea to the historical epics of China, the platform caters to a global audience hungry for the unique storytelling styles of Asian cinema and television. Viewers can immerse themselves in the vibrant worlds of K-dramas, C-dramas, J-dramas, and more, transcending language barriers through subtitles provided by a passionate community.
Rakuten Viki’s content library spans various genres, ensuring there’s something for every viewer. Whether it’s the captivating romance of “Crash Landing On You,” the gripping historical intrigue of “Nirvana in Fire,” or the heartwarming family dynamics of “My ID is Gangnam Beauty,” the platform delivers a rich tapestry of storytelling that captivates and resonates with audiences worldwide.
Community-Driven Subtitles:
One of Rakuten Viki’s distinctive features is its community-driven subtitle system. The platform empowers viewers to contribute subtitles in multiple languages, enabling a collaborative and inclusive viewing experience. This approach not only facilitates accessibility for non-native speakers but also fosters a sense of community among viewers.
The process involves volunteers, often referred to as “Viki community members,” who dedicate their time to translating and subtitling content. This community-driven aspect not only accelerates the subtitling process but also allows for a more nuanced and culturally sensitive translation. It’s a testament to the global reach of Rakuten Viki, where viewers from different corners of the world come together to make Asian content accessible to a wider audience.
Quality Originals and Exclusives:
In addition to a vast library of licensed content, Rakuten Viki has ventured into producing its own original series and securing exclusive rights to certain shows. These originals, such as “Dramaworld” and “Viki Originals,” showcase the platform’s commitment to creating unique and compelling content that resonates with its international audience.
Securing exclusive rights to popular dramas ensures that Rakuten Viki remains a go-to destination for fans eager to access the latest and most sought-after titles. This strategic approach has allowed the platform to continuously enhance its content offerings, solidifying its position as a leading streaming service for Asian entertainment.
Multilingual Accessibility:
Rakuten Viki’s dedication to multilingual accessibility is a driving force behind its global appeal. The platform provides subtitles in a multitude of languages, including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Arabic, and many more. This commitment to inclusivity allows viewers from diverse linguistic backgrounds to enjoy content seamlessly, breaking down language barriers and fostering cultural exchange.
The multilingual aspect extends beyond subtitles, as the platform’s website and user interface are often available in multiple languages. This level of localization enhances the user experience and ensures that Rakuten Viki is accessible and user-friendly for a global audience.
Regional Availability and Licensing:
While Rakuten Viki strives to provide a global platform for Asian content, the availability of certain shows can be subject to regional restrictions due to licensing agreements. Licensing agreements with content producers and distributors dictate which shows can be offered in specific regions. Therefore, viewers may encounter regional variations in the available content.
Rakuten Viki continues to work on expanding its global reach, negotiating licensing agreements to bring more content to viewers in different parts of the world. The platform’s dedication to overcoming licensing challenges reflects its commitment to making Asian entertainment accessible to audiences globally.
Technological Innovation:
Rakuten Viki leverages technological innovations to enhance the streaming experience for its users. The platform offers high-definition streaming, ensuring that viewers can enjoy their favorite shows with optimal visual quality. Additionally, user-friendly interfaces, personalized
Stay curious.