‘Battle Trip’ in CNMI to air on July 23 in Korea

The Korea Broadcasting Systems (KBS) TV entertainment travel program “Battle Trip” will air its episode recently filmed on Saipan on July 23, 2016, bringing an estimated $1.3 million in ad exposure to the Northern Mariana Islands. The 60-minute broadcast, negotiated by the Marianas Visitors Authority, is accompanied by newsletter and press release distribution and social media postings by participating celebrities.

“‘Battle Trip’ is just one in a continuing list of Korean television shows the MVA has negotiated with to film in the Northern Marianas, which is a great plus for our marketing and promotions,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Through these negotiations and with the support of our industry partners, we are able to collectively draw shows that highlight our unique attractions in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.”

On “Battle Trip,” two groups of celebrities travel to two countries, each group with itineraries they develop under a given theme. After returning from the trips, the two trips are presented to a studio audience, which then votes for their favorite. The filming crew visited the Northern Marianas from June 20-24, 2016, and covered major attractions and leisure activities on Saipan, with mention of Tinian and Rota, as well. The featured celebrities will be musician Lee Jae-hoon, producer/musician Muji, and media personality Yae Jung-hwa.

As the theme of the episode was “destination for couples,” the MVA’s office in Korea pitched activities that could be enjoyed by couples: snorkeling, scuba diving at Grotto and Managaha, beach sunset BBQ, buggy tour, go kart, and more. The crew also filmed major tourist attractions in Saipan including Banzai Cliff, downtown Garapan, and Mt. Tapochau.

The filming was also supported by Jeju Air, Aqua Resort Club, Hard Rock Café Saipan, Kinpachi Restaurant, and the Dept. of Public Lands.

KBS is the national public broadcaster of South Korea. It was founded in 1927, and operates radio, television and online services, being one of the biggest South Korean television networks. KBS is one of the most influential media organizations in the country in terms of sales and volume. KBS1, KBS’ flagship channel, broadcasts news and current affairs, education, sports and culture, whereas KBS2 is an entertainment and drama channel. KBS2 is available on digital channel 7 via digital terrestrial television and “Battle Trip” will be aired via KBS2 with an anticipated 5-6 percent viewer rating; approximately 2.6-million viewers are expected to watch the program.

Lee, who acted as a guide for the other participants, is a renowned singer and media personality in Korea, who debuted in 1994 as a member of the band Cool and who has over 42,000 Instagram followers. He has numerous hit songs, and renowned recording artist PSY featured one of his song, “Paradise.” Lee has visited the Northern Marianas many times to scuba dive and is said to love the underwater environment of Saipan. Muji is also a member of UV, a musical/comedic duo known for creating music with comedic lyrics that ran on a show on Mnet (cable TV channel) titled “UV Syndrome.” Yae is a strengthening coach for Korea’s National Football team and a media personality who has appeared on numerous TV shows for health and exercise.