Korean Tech Powers Brazil’s New ATSC 3.0 Broadcast Standard
Brazil has adopted a new broadcasting system based on advanced Korean technology, marking a significant milestone for the South American media and telecommunications markets. According to South Korea’s ICT Ministry, Brazil has selected the DTV+ system, built on the US Advanced Television Systems Committee’s (ATSC) ATSC 3.0 standard, integrating key technologies developed by Korea’s Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI).
ATSC 3.0 represents the most advanced terrestrial broadcasting standard, offering enhanced video quality, interactivity and efficient spectrum use.
The Brazilian adoption includes Korean-developed innovations such as multi-input multi-output (MIMO) and layered division multiplexing.
The technologies optimise data delivery within a limited spectrum, enabling superior broadcast reception on consumer TVs.
Brazil’s shift to ATSC 3.0, leveraging Korea’s R&D strengths, replaces the previous Japanese-standard ISDB-T system adopted in 2006, which had limited access to South American markets for Korean companies.
Now, with ATSC 3.0 as its core technology, Brazil opens significant commercial opportunities for Korean broadcasters, device manufacturers and related technology providers.
Brazil’s broadcast market scale and significance
Brazil is one of the largest broadcast media markets worldwide, with a terrestrial reception rate reaching approximately 73%.
Its recent decision to transition to ATSC 3.0 facilitates modern broadcasting capabilities just ahead of major global events, such as the 2026 World Cup, accelerating demand for next-generation broadcasting services and compatible consumer equipment.
The South American market presents a critical export and influence opportunity for Korean technology firms, including TV manufacturers Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics, which can capitalise on growing demand for ATSC 3.0-capable devices.
Government support fuels market penetration
Second Vice Minister of Science and ICT Ryu Je-myung stresses the role of government-backed research and strategic commercialisation: “The selection is the result of government R&D efforts that went beyond technology development to achieve successful commercialisation and it will be a good opportunity for Korean companies to occupy related markets.
“The government will spare no effort to develop advanced technologies that can compete in the global market and cooperate with other countries to drive domestic technologies to be commercialised,” he adds.
The statement highlights the South Korean government’s proactive role in positioning national technologies for global leadership, particularly in cutting-edge broadcasting fields.
Technical advantages of ATSC 3.0 technology
ATSC 3.0 combines ultra-high-definition 4K video, immersive Dolby AC-4 audio and data broadcasting capabilities, typically delivered using Internet Protocol (IP) standards. Features include hybrid broadcast-broadband content delivery, interactivity and robust signal reception, including mobile device compatibility.
Korean-developed MIMO and layered division multiplexing optimise the use of spectrum by enabling multiple simultaneous data streams, enhancing broadcast quality and reliability.
The technology evolution allows broadcasters to maximise efficiency while unlocking new revenue streams through interactive content and targeted advertising.
Implications for South America’s broadcasting landscape
With Brazil’s market adopting ATSC 3.0, an anticipated domino effect is expected across South America.
Countries that previously adopted Japan’s ISDB-T standard may now reconsider their options, increasing demand for ATSC 3.0-compliant hardware and services.
Korean technology firms are thus well-positioned to expand their footprint, providing broadcasting equipment, consumer devices and follow-up innovations tailored to the ecosystem.
Telecommunications stakeholders can expect enhanced infrastructure investments, spectrum efficiency gains and enriched multimedia services, driven by the transition. The standard’s support for emergency alerting and hyperlocal content promises social value alongside commercial benefits.
Driving future broadcast and telecom convergence
Brazil’s adoption of the Korean-backed ATSC 3.0 standard represents the convergence of broadcasting and telecommunications technologies, enabling IP-based broadcasting that integrates traditional linear TV with broadband internet and interactive services.
As ATSC 3.0 provides a platform for richer content distribution and viewer engagement, telecom operators, broadcasters and technology companies within the region have a clear mandate to deploy infrastructure and ecosystem partnerships that realise the standard’s full potential.
The milestone reflects broader global trends toward harmonising broadcast and telecom services, creating exciting commercial and technical possibilities for Korean companies and their South American partners alike.
