Korean Webtoon Adaptations, ‘The Vanishing Act’ Lead 2027 Vertical Slate Unveiled by COL Group, V47 and Virtue Asia
COL Group, V47 Entertainment and Virtue Asia have announced a 2027 slate of vertical microdramas, led by Korean webtoon and web-novel adaptations made with CJ Group and several new originals. The announcement matters because the partners are also launching a model that lets brands help develop and finance entertainment, potentially gaining a stake in the intellectual property.
The Korean adaptations include “Idol Once Again”, “Genius Doctor Lee Mu-jin” and “The Exclusive Secretary”; original projects include the mystery “The Vanishing Act” and competition thriller “Fortune Chasers”. The companies also plan to extend three existing microdramas, though they have not said how. COL’s FlareFlow has more than 52 million registered users, nearly 7,000 titles and audiences in over 200 countries and regions.
In short
- A new 2027 slate combines Korean adaptations and original microdramas.
- Brands may take roles in development, production and financing.
- FlareFlow reports more than 52 million registered users.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Brand involvement could bring new funding and audiences to microdramas, while giving companies a commercial stake in the intellectual property they help develop. Supporters may see this as a way to share risk, expand the range of projects and build on the format’s existing international reach.
The case against
Critics could argue that giving brands a role in development and a stake in intellectual property may put commercial priorities ahead of creators’ control or a story’s artistic aims. They may also question whether the model can sustain distinctive work if projects are shaped around brand interests and marketability.
Explained simply
Vertical microdramas are short, mobile-first drama episodes designed to be watched on a phone. Webtoons are digital comics, while web novels are stories published online; both are often adapted for screen.
COL Group, V47 Entertainment and Virtue Asia are entertainment companies working on the slate, with CJ Group involved in the Korean adaptations. COL’s FlareFlow is a platform for vertical dramas, with a reported audience across more than 200 countries and regions.
The announcement also describes a way for brands to help develop and fund shows, potentially receiving a share in the rights to the stories and characters. This links advertising with entertainment production and could affect how new programmes are financed and who owns them.