Netflix works to improve reality-TV dubbing to lure more subscribers

Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) is pushing to improve the quality of reality shows from countries such as South Korea by teaching voice actors in the United States, Europe and elsewhere how to provide dubbed conversations that sound authentic, The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday.

Reality TV is less expensive to produce, and language differences typically make the programming more difficult to export to other countries. Netflix (NFLX) seeks to broaden the appeal of shows that are popular in one market, such as South Korean dating shows, physical competitions and game shows, the newspaper reported.

The focus on reality TV comes as Netflix (NFLX) faces greater competition from other streaming services. Amid cost pressures, the percentage of scripted content has declined from about 70% five years ago to an even split now, according to data from researcher Ampere Analysis cited by the Journal.

Netflix (NFLX) has programming in more than 30 languages, and non-English content makes up about a third of all viewing on its platform. Films and shows from South Korea are particularly popular, such the hit “Squid Game” that stands as the most-watched series on Netflix (NFLX).