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NHK Announces Consolidation of Radio Waves and Restructuring Plans

NHK Unveils Plan to Consolidate and Streamline Media Holdings in Draft Management Plan

NHK, also known as Japan Broadcasting Corporation, has recently presented a draft medium-term management plan, outlining its future management policies and strategies for the next three years. As part of its ongoing structural reforms, NHK has proposed a consolidation and reduction plan of its media holdings, particularly in the radio sector. Seeking to streamline operations and optimize efficiency, the company intends to merge and downsize the AM waves of “Radio 1” and “Radio 2” into a single entity by 2026.

Acknowledging the need for business expenditure reforms, NHK is actively engaging with users and stakeholders to gather opinions and feedback on the proposed plan. The aim is to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive decision-making process before implementing any significant changes. This open approach not only validates NHK’s dedication to serving its audience effectively but also demonstrates its commitment to stakeholder engagement.

In citing NHK’s previous management plan, it becomes evident that the reduction of radio services has been a consideration. By incorporating user input and reaching a consensus, NHK aims to align its media offerings with the evolving needs and preferences of its audience. Pending approval from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, NHK intends to transition from the current three-wave system, which comprises regular FM and started broadcasting in 1969, to a two-wave system called New AM and New FM, set to kick off in 2026.

In addition to the proposed radio restructuring, NHK has also made decisions regarding its satellite broadcast waves. Effective December 1st, this year, the broadcast channels “BS1,” “BS Premium,” and “BS4K” will be amalgamated, giving rise to two new channels: “NHK BS” in high definition (HD) and “NHK BS Premium 4K” in 4K resolution. The transition will mark the discontinuation of the BS Premium channel from December 1st and its complete cessation by the end of March 2024.

By taking these strategic measures, NHK marks another milestone in its ongoing efforts to adapt, innovate, and optimize its media offerings. As the company embarks on this transformative journey, it remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering high-quality and cutting-edge content to its loyal audience across Japan.

On the 10th, NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) published a draft medium-term management plan that summarizes its management policy for the next three years. In accordance with business expenditure reforms, the company has announced a policy to consolidate and reduce the AM waves of “Radio 1” and “Radio 2” into one from 2026. NHK will now ask for the opinion of users and others on the proposed plan.

NHK has proposed a plan to organize and reduce its media holdings as part of its structural reforms, and in terms of radio, the previous management plan clearly stated that it would consider reductions in the future. After seeking opinion, if the management plan is approved by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the current three-wave system that began broadcasting regular FM in 1969 will be changed to a two-wave system of New AM and New FM starting in 2026. .

Furthermore, from December 1st this year, it was decided that the satellite broadcast waves “BS1”, “BS Premium”, and “BS4K” will be combined, and new channels will be launched: HD “ NHK BS” and 4K “NHK BS Premium 4K”. The BS Premium will expire from 1 December, and will expire at the end of March 2024.

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