NHK Annual Report 2015- 2016 Contents 2 Message from the President NHK 5 Programs 7 Channels 9 NHK Corporate Plan 11 News Reporting 13 Global Network ANNUAL REPORT 15 Broadcasting Technologies 19 Digital Services 21 NHK WORLD 23 Global Partners 2015/2016 26 Research and Archives 27 Serving Our Audience 28 Supported by Audience 29 Organization 30 History of NHK
Message from the President
This year is the 90th anniversary of the start of radio broadcasting in Japan in 1925. The story of broadcasting since then has been the story of Japan and the world. Through the end of the war and post-war reconstruction to the years of high-speed growth, the bursting of the economic bubble and on to the present day, NHK has broadcast the great events and changes of our times, and delivered broadcasts that protect people’s lives in times of disaster.
The annual public opinion surveys reveal diverse expectations regarding the mission and role of public broadcasting. The expectations for “Fairness and Impartiality” and “Sharing of Social Is- sues” rose for three years in a row through the last fiscal year, and so did people’s evaluation of how well these are being realized. I sense that there still is more that we can and ought to do in terms of how far we can answer those expectations.
NHK starts a new three-year Corporate Plan in the new fiscal year. This plan is also targeted to- wards NHK’s vision of “Becoming an Even More Trustworthy Source of Information, Shaping the Future with the Power of Creativity” for 2020, the year of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. Our broadcasts are evolving to help build a better future, strengthen transmissions to the world and the distribution of information via the Internet, and also through the promotion of 8K (Super Hi-Vision).
As a public broadcaster, NHK must also never forget the great importance of ensuring that the bur- den of receiving fees is borne fairly. Target 80 is an initiative to mobilize the whole corporation in activities to promote understanding of the receiving fee system with the target of achieving a record 80% payment rate and 50% satellite contract rate by the end of the 2017 fiscal year. All members of NHK staff are united in this goal and striving to undertake the challenges and re- forms. I ask for everyone’s understanding and support.
Katsuto MOMII NHK President June 2015
1 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 2 3 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 4 Award-Winning Programs Programs NHK participates in competitions and TV festivals in order to enhance the quality of its programs, to share Japanese content with international audiences and to promote understanding ews urrent ffairs between Japan and the rest of the world. In fisical 2014, NHK N C A Entertainment programs won 140 awards in Japan and abroad.
Documentary Legends of the Deep: Asia Rainbow TV Awards Deep-Sea Sharks Best Nature & Environment Documentary In co-production with NEP, Discovery Channel and ZDF/ARTE China Dragon Awards Silver prize for NATURE & ENVIRONMENT
World Media Festival Intermedia-globe GOLD for DOCUMENTARIES/ Nature and Wildlife
Sumo Spirit ABU Prize for TV: Sports News 7 NHK Special Buratamori – walking around towns and cities ~ A Storm from Egypt~
Drama Sports Nature Drama
Battlefield Tokyo Monte Carlo Television Festival Monaco Red Cross Prize
Radio Chicago International Film Festival Television Awards Gold Plaque for Feature Length Telefilm Historical Drama “Ardent Flower” Spirits of the Athletes Life Force The U.S. International Film & Video Festival Certificate for Creative Excellence for Entertainment/TV regular-TV Movie World Media Festival Intermedia-globe GOLD for Science & Technology Children’s & Education International ENTERTAINMENT programs
Children and Education
Mimicries - The Secret of JAPAN PRIZE International Black and Yellow Contest for Educational Media The Best Work in the Pre-school Category (The Minister of Internal Affairs and Communication Prize)
Radio
Cosmic Front Next With Mother International News Report 2015 A Pot of Goldfish: 55 Years ABU Prize for RADIO: Drama of Dreaming of Black and Yellow
5 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 6 Channels ELEVISION ADIO T NHK continues to deliver a diverse range of programs R March 2015 marks the 90th anniversary of radio broadcasting in Japan. Since over its TV channels, composed of two terrestrial and its first radio broadcast, NHK’s radio services have delivered a wide range of two satellite channels. programs.
DOMO, NHK mascot © NHK.TYO
General TV Educational TV Radio 1 Radio 2
Weekly programming hours Total : 168h00m Weekly programming hours Total : 142h45m Weekly programming hours Total : 168h00m Weekly programming hours Total : 130h20m
News : 75h06m News : 4h32m News : 85h55m News : 15h15m Education : 17h23m Education : 111h47m Education : 4h31m Education : 90h32m Culture : 37h10m Culture : 39h34m Culture : 26h26m Culture : 24h33m Entertainment : 38h21m Entertainment : 38h00m
The main NHK terrestrial channel broadcasts around the This terrestrial channel is aimed at younger viewers. It delivers This station delivers a broad selection of programs, from news Radio 2 focuses on educational programs and has earned clock, every day of the year. This channel delivers news and a variety of educational programs, as well as programs focusing to entertainment, designed to appeal across the generations. In a deserved reputation as Japan’s “lifelong learning channel.” information essential to the lives of people in Japan, as well as on classical art, welfare issues, and music. the event of a natural disaster, Radio 1 provides safety advice It devotes a great deal of time to language learning, culture, cultural and entertainment programs. and information. Most programs are broadcast live, giving and welfare issues, as well as new programs, including the channel the ability to deliver information promptly in the business lectures. Some programs broadcast on NHK’s event of an emergency. international radio service, NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN, are also available on this channel.
BS 1 BS Premium FM
Weekly programming hours Total : 168h00m Weekly programming hours Total : 168h00m Weekly programming hours Total : 166h09m
News : 90h22m Education : 35h19m Education : 9h26m Education : 23h56m News : 2h09m News : 23h08m Culture : 36h32m Culture : 66h49m Culture : 70h16m Entertainment : 17h10m Entertainment : 63h43m Entertainment : 63h19m
Programming focuses on world news and live sports, as well as An “edutainment” channel that can be enjoyed by a broad As a comprehensive music channel, FM delivers programs documentaries that analyze the background to global situations. cross section of viewers, BS Premium seeks to broadcast rich, with high-quality sound to lovers of various genres of music, in-depth programs, including shows on nature, the arts, music, from pop to classical. In the event of a disaster, the channel and the theater. will cooperate with Radio 1 to quickly provide essential local information.
Radiru, NHK radio’s mascot © NHK.NHKSC
7 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 8 NHK Corporate Plan Becoming an Even More Trustworthy Source of Information, Shaping the Future with the Power of Creativity
NHK’s Vision 2015-2020 Looking forward to 2020, the year of the our reporting and production capabilities. Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, As prescribed in the Broadcast Law, NHK NHK (Nippon Hoso Kyokai, also known as will continue to fulfill its mission to serve Japan Broadcasting Corporation) endeavors the public as a trusted source of news and to provide broadcasting and services of the information, with fast and accurate reporting, world’s highest standards, utilizing leading- a wide range of fulfilling, high-quality content, edge technologies. and enhanced global reach, both through Beginning in 2015, we will further enhance broadcasting and through the Internet.
NHK Corporate Plan (FY2015-2017) : Five Major Objectives
Accurate reporting people can Creating broadcasting and Maximum effort to ensure that Further enhancing creativity rely on; a wide range of Presenting Japan to the world services that open up new receiving fees are borne fairly and efficiency fulfilling content possibilities
As the media revolution con- “Protecting people’s lives and As the cross-border flow of people In order to achieve the highest-quality To ensure an equitable burden-sharing Structural reforms between NHK itself tinues, and in anticipation of livelihoods” is one of public and information accelerates and broadcasting and services in the world of “receiving fees,” NHK, faced with and its affiliated organizations will move broadcasting’s most important missions. globalization moves forward with by 2020, NHK will focus on new slackening growth in the number of forward. the worldwide attention Japan NHK’s Tokyo headquarters and great speed, NHK, as “a trusted public services utilizing the Internet, “8K households, will take measures to Managerial resources will be reallocated is expected to draw in the year stations will work as one and maximize broadcaster,” will transmit accurate (Super Hi-Vision),” and other services promote the public’s understanding with the twin goal of creativity and 2020, NHK will carry forward our efforts to contribute to disaster information and a diverse range of that provide new value to our audience. of the receiving fee system. The greater efficiency in operations in its “challenge” and “reform,” prevention and reduction through our programs and other content, thereby collection system will be overhauled and order to achieve the NHK Group’s reporting. bridging Japan with the world through NHK will steadily implement measures maximum effort will be made to achieve collective strength to produce rich and positioning the Three-Year Plan the promotion of the understanding in anticipation of its evolution into the highest-ever receiving-fee payment varied broadcasting and services, and (FY2015-2017) as the first phase NHK will further strengthen reporting of Japan and Japanese perspectives in advanced “public media.” rates. to strengthen its content production of NHK’s step-up to the mile- and production capabilities. It will politics, economy, society, culture, and capabilities. stone. utilize leading-edge technologies to other fields. NHK will implement the “total reach” NHK will further strengthen ties with deliver to our viewers well-grounded concept, which provides a measure its viewership, and appropriately reflect The work environment will accom- reporting that takes on political, for both a qualitative and quantitative their opinions in NHK’s operations. modate a diverse range of work types, economic and social issues facing Japan understanding of how viewers access so that the NHK Group can secure and and the world, as well as a wide range of NHK content through the Internet and nurture personnel. content appealing to various interests of various other formats, not just through our audience. Through these measures, broadcast. Adoption of this analytical NHK will ensure compliance, and, NHK will fulfill its role as a provider of method will enable NHK to effectively adhering to the Broadcasting Guidelines, information that people can rely on to be deliver its content through a wider range will maintain the independence and well informed and to make decisions. of media beyond the conventional types. autonomy of broadcasting.
9 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 10 News Reporting Disaster Reporting Four years after the Great East Japan Earthquake, NHK continues to carry out its mission to protect lives Fair, impartial and accurate news coverage and livelihoods through coverage of natural disasters. High-quality programming of all kinds Earthquake Early Warning System Disaster Drills Data from the Japan Meteo- Almost every night, staff rological Agency is delivered in the newsroom at NHK NHK news coverage mandates fairness, impartiality, accuracy to NHK via a direct line. In headquarters carry out a and promptness. the event of a natural disaster, disaster drill. To deliver the news, NHK strives to make the best use of its NHK instantly broadcasts nationwide network. Specialist staff at each station, including warnings across all its TV news reporters, program directors and engineers, gather and radio channels. accurate, breaking information around the clock on a wide array of topics, ranging from major incidents to socially NHK Helicopters Remote-Controlled Cameras significant issues. That information is delivered across NHK’s NHK has 15 helicopters NHK operates about 500 television and radio channels, both regionally and nationally. based at 12 locations around remote-controlled cameras at the country. key locations. The equipment has been upgraded to ensure that cameras continue to SAPPORO operate even in the event of a power blackout triggered by a natural disaster. Multi-language Emergency Broadcasts SNG Vans Tsunami warnings are broadcast in four languages for the Satellite news gathering vans NHK has 54 Broadcasting Stations in 47 prefectures and major cities benefit of foreign residents of Japan: Chinese, English, are based at all stations. (including the corporation’s headquarters in Tokyo) Korean, and Portuguese. Information about areas that will be affected by a tsunami, along with evacuation warnings, will be broadcast on the audio sub-channel on TV and on Radio 2.
SENDAI The Great East Japan Earthquake The Great East Japan Earthquake, which struck on March 11, 2011, caused damage on an unprecedented scale. NHK immediately switched to providing emergency news across all its television and radio channels, delivering a constant flow of information about the earthquake and tsunami. TOKYO
NAGOYA HIROSHIMA www.nhk.or.jp/datajournalism/ OSAKA Utilizing Big Data The term Big Data refers to vast amount of data available to us NHK has carried out four reports that have gathered and FUKUOKA MATSUYAMA from the Internet and advances in computer processing. The analyzed this body of data with a view to reducing the information includes tweets on Twitter, as well as the GPS casualties and damage from disasters. The series featured co-ordinates given by mobile phones, and details of where computer graphics created from the data, around the time of vehicles traveled gained from their satellite-navigation systems. the massive earthquake and tsunami.
Disaster Big Data Episode IV Mapping out Survival Strategies for the Aftermath of a Major Disaster What happens if you manage to escape the onslaught of a major tsunami or earthquake? How do you survive in the aftermath? This is one of the many issues raised by the disaster of March 11, 2011. Episode IV will focus on the blind spots in the delivery of relief supplies. Analysis of big data generated at the time of the disaster concerning major purchases, the travel recorders of trucks, and so on, can help researchers and local authorities draw up “survival hazard maps.”
11 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 12 Global Network
Moscow London Berlin Europe Vienna Paris (Europe General Bureau) Vladivostok New York Beijing (America General Bureau) (China General Bureau) Seoul North America Washington Los Angeles Tehran Islamabad Headquarters Shanghai Jerusalem Cairo New Delhi Middle East / Africa Guangzhou Asia / Far East Dubai Taipei Hanoi Hong Kong Manila
Bangkok (Asia General Bureau)
Singapore
Jakarta South America
Sao Paulo
Johannesburg Oceania Sydney
Latest and Precise International Coverage
The advance of globalization has made everybody more NHK maintains overseas bureaus at 29 locations around the For immediate response to major disasters and incidents NHK also places high priority on documentary programs alert to foreign news. Relations between China, South Korea world with a staff of 80 correspondents to perform round- around the world, an Emergency Deployment Team of news with foreign themes, and these enjoy a high reputation. In and Japan, developments in North Korea, the United States the-clock coverage. Our basic principle is to cover stories and technical staff has been established for urgent dispatch 2014, NHK’s documentary “WAVE: Syria Through the Eyes military and diplomatic “pivot” or “rebalance” toward Asia, overseas and report them directly from the spot. In 2014, a to cover stories anytime, anywhere. Stories covered included of its People” won the Gold World Medal in the Television -- terrorism by IS (Islamic State) and others, epidemic diseases, new bureau was opened in Johannesburg, South Africa, to the Sewol ferry disaster in South Korea in April 2014, the Documentary/Information Program - National/International global economic trends, environmental problems and more… enhance our African coverage. To reinforce coverage of China shooting down of the Malaysia Airlines plane over Ukraine in Affairs division of the New York Festivals. the rapid, lucid reporting of news and issues from around the and East Asia as a whole, a reporter was also newly stationed July 2014, and the IS Japanese hostage incident. NHK is committed to the further enhancement of news and world is one of NHK’s core missions as a public broadcaster. on a permanent basis in Hong Kong. programs on international themes.
13 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 14 The Latest Broadcasting Technologies – The Future of Television Technological Development
NHK is stepping up a wide range of R&D to realize broadcasting systems, for delivering programs to the home the earliest possible start of 8K broadcasting, from and domestic-use 8K TV sets. cameras, microphones, and other production equipment to
History of 8K camera downsizing
2002 80kg 2004 40kg 2010 20kg 2012 5kg 2013 2kg
The development of broadcasting is supported by technological evolution. NHK is a leader and major contributor in the global development of broadcasting from initial R&D to Content Development implementing and disseminating new technologies and services.
8K (Super Hi-Vision)
Led by ongoing research and development at NHK, 8K pixels by 4,320 vertical pixels,) and three-dimensional (Super Hi-Vision) is the next generation of broadcast media. 22.2-multichannel sound, giving the audience the feeling With 16 times the resolution of current 2K Hi-Vision (HD of actually being there. Test broadcasts are scheduled to System) and four times the resolution of 4K, the ultra high start in Japan in 2016. Widespread use is targeted from the NHK/TV GLOBO definition format uses 33 million pixels (7,680 horizontal Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. A short film “Beauties À La Carte” Rio de Janeiro Carnival
Application for Non-Broadcasting Fields Top layer
Middle layer 8K means extremely high images -- precise and detailed.
Bottom layer Its application goes beyond broadcasting to the world of medicine, education, art museums, digital cinema, signage, Super Hi-Vision LFE (Low Frequency Effects) Speaker Hi-Vision industrial design, crime prevention, and security. 16 times the number of pixels of Hi-Vision 22.2ch multichannel sound system
Public Viewings of the Research began 2012 London Olympics 8K Satellite Broadcasting 1995 2002 2012 2016 2018 2020 Shown first time at NHK 8K Test Satellite Tokyo Olympics Education Signage Museum Utilizing 8K images in a surgery STRL Open house Broadcasting
15 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 16 Large Sheet Displays NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories (STRL)
A large sheet display is also being developed to promote The NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories, the spread of 8K. Research to bring these big, light, founded in 1930, is Japan’s only research institute dedicated thin, and flexible screens to the home as quickly as to the survey, research, and development of broadcasting possible is progressing in such areas as long-life organic technology from program production to transmission electroluminescence and power saving efficiency. and reception. The many technologies developed by the laboratories have given birth to satellite, Hi-Vision, digital, and other broadcasting services. The laboratories have performed a pioneering role in broadcasting technology not only in Japan but globally, greatly contributing to the development of broadcasting culture. A large sheet display Outside the broadcasting field, such inventions as the Hi- Vision HARP camera, now being used in medicine, have found wide-ranging applications from medical treatment Integral 3D TV and science to the arts.
Integral 3D television is a system which reproduces 3D space for simple, natural viewing without the use of special glasses. The 3D effects work vertically as well as horizontally to create a powerful impression that the objects are really there. NHK has positioned 8K as the next-generation TV system, Viewed from above and this research on integral 3D TV is targeted for practical NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories introduction 20 years from now.
Viewed from the left Viewed from the right The Open House Viewed from below As the research laboratories of the public broadcaster, we also display our research findings to the public. Viewers and listeners are introduced to the research Sample images from Integral 3D TV achievements of the past year through straightforward explanations at a unique Open House held every May. Tens of thousands of people, from experts to User-friendly Technology family groups, visit every year. Besides displays of the latest research results, the attractions also include opportunities for visitors to use the technologies NHK is also engaged in diverse R&D activities aimed at studying technology to convert Japanese automatically into themselves and guided tours led by research staff. helping the elderly, children, people who have difficulties sign-language computer graphics. Our various research Every effort is made to ensure that everyone enjoys with their vision or hearing, and others enjoy broadcasts themes also include “tactile television,” a touch TV system, their visit to the full. more comfortably and in ways they prefer. Seeking to such as pressure pads for conveying the feel of an object to expand sign language broadcasts, for example, we are the fingers or hands.
Spearheading Standardization
Broadcasting is a part of the public information received without problems on the same set and the exchange infrastructure. NHK seeks to standardize broadcasting of images and sound between the broadcasters of Japan and technology and create an environment for as many people other countries and regions proceeds without a hitch. By to use it as possible. NHK is an active participant in providing its technical prowess far and wide, NHK supports standardization activities in Japan and abroad to ensure the progress and development of broadcasting all over the Automatic CG sign language system Tactile Television Technology that programs produced by various broadcasters can all be world.
17 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 18 Digital Services Digital Broadcast Services Data Broadcasting
With the switch from terrestrial and satellite broadcasts to digital, NHK is making optimal use of the most This enables digitized text and images to be sent via up-to-date technology to deliver new services. television signals. Viewers can press a button on their television remote control to access a data screen that shows news, weather, sports, program schedules, and other useful NHK Hybridcast everyday information. Viewers using an Internet-connected television can access “NHK Hybridcast” is a service that combines broadcasting and BS Premium. By combining programs transmitted via interactive features, such as participating in quiz programs. and communications. Launched on September 29, 2014, broadcasting with information provided via the Internet, NHK the service is now available for not only NHK General TV Hybridcast offers a variety of services. programs broadcast in Japan, but also Educational TV, BS1, Multichannel Programming Catering to Special Needs A service that enables multiple channels to be delivered on a Subtitling functions are available for news and other single channel. This allows, for example, for the extension of programs. An audio subchannel for drama programs a live sports broadcast that runs over its scheduled time. provides details about what is happening on-screen and other Broadcasting Internet information. Service Provider / Broadcaster Broadcast Station www.nhk.or.jp/ www.nhk.or.jp/corporateinfo Program-Related Contents Internet Service On-Demand Contents Content Recommendation NHK Online and NHK Corporate Information Program Program Guide NHK’s Japanese website, NHK Online, provides news, NHK’s English website, NHK Online English (NHK Social Networking Services program information, and a wide range of content tailored to Corporate Information), provides access to corporate the user’s platform, whether it’s a PC, a smartphone, or a cell information, events, and so on. phone.
NHK Net Radio “Radiru Radiru” Utilizing the Internet, this service enables NHK’s Radio 1, Radio 2, and FM channels to be accessed in places where it can be difficult to get clear reception, such as in buildings, on Example of Services trains, or in mountainous areas. Access is limited to within Japan, but broadcasts from local stations in Tokyo, Osaka, Footage search service Multiscreen Technology Nagoya, and Sendai can be enjoyed across the country. Search functions Program-related in- enable viewers to formation can be watch their desired displayed on a tablet programs. device or smartphone, as well as on the TV NHK on Demand (NOD) screen. NOD provides previously broadcast NHK programs and other content through a video on demand (VOD), fee-based system. The catch-up service, which is only available in Japan, (Expected future service) Start Over Service Multiview Camera provides programs for about two weeks after broadcast. An This service enables Viewers can view a extensive library service provides access to older programs. viewers to watch a program from various NOD is available via PCs, smartphones, tablet devices, and program from the camera angles. through Internet-connected televisions and cable TV. beginning, even if the broadcast has already started.
19 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 20 NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN NHK WORLD NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN broadcasts in Japanese and 17 other languages. In addition to short wave, the service is Language NHK broadcasts internationally via TV, radio, and the Internet under the name of NHK WORLD to also expanding on medium wave, FM, and satellite radio, Services inform the world about the latest stories from Japan and Asia. depending on the characteristics of each region and its media English Arabic Bengali Burmese Chinese environment. French Hindi Indonesian Korean Persian Portuguese Each language service broadcasts for 30 to 45 minutes Russian Spanish Swahili Thai Urdu Vietnamese Japanese NHK WORLD TV (English language channel) several times a day. Besides delivering the latest news quickly and accurately, these broadcasts also present the attractions NHK WORLD TV broadcasts news and programs in English 150 countries and regions could access the service as of of Japan and other cultural information, from Japanese 24 hours a day, bringing the world the latest information January 2015. There is also live streaming on the Internet that technology, industry and business, to cuisine, travel, culture, from across Japan and Asia. Depending on the region, enables programs to be viewed online at the same time they are the Japanese lifestyle and Japanese-language lessons. viewers can watch the broadcasts via local satellite or cable broadcast. On-demand distribution starts in June 2015. There will be a number of special projects to mark the 80th services or IPTV. About 280 million households in roughly anniversary of the start of international broadcasting in June 2015. An Attractive New Look in 2015 NHK WORLD ONLINE nhk.jp/nhkworld
The Internet service, NHK WORLD ONLINE, presents live streaming of the broadcasts of NHK WORLD TV and NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN.
NEWSROOM TOKYO GLOBAL AGENDA A new, 45-minute news program, NEWSROOM TOKYO, is now being A big new discussion program, GLOBAL AGENDA, will invite global opinion broadcast on weekday evenings Japan Time with clear, in-depth reports leaders to propose solutions to the problems confronting Japan and the on what is happening around Japan and Asia. world.
Information programs on everything from the Japanese for each region. On weekends, the rich program line-up will economy and industry to the latest technologies, travel, food, include cartoons and other entertainment programs. Looking and culture will be broadcast on weekdays, paying careful ahead towards the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in attention to the most convenient viewing times in North 2020, these programs will present the attractions and issues of America, Asia and Europe and the most interesting themes Japan.
Special free apps have also been developed and released for easy access via smartphone or tablet. NHK WORLD TV A major renewal of the NHK WORLD website is App for iPhone, iPad, provisionally scheduled in June with the addition of video- and Android on-demand, its focus on a catch-up service for programs viewers may have missed on NHK WORLD TV. NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN SAMURAI WHEELS J-MELO Apps in 17 languages for iPhone and Android
(The channel for Japanese viewers abroad) NEWSLINE NHK WORLD PREMIUM Bringing the latest news every day, at the top of NHK WORLD PREMIUM is a 24-hour service broadcasting for Japanese people living and travelling abroad. It can be Sushi and Beyond every hour. Journeys in Japan a wide range of news, information programs, dramas, and accessed by about 15 million households in more than 100 music programs selected from the four domestic channels countries and regions of the world.
21 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 22 International Cooperation & Training Global Partners NHK provides technical assistance to broadcasting Forty-one people from 23 countries received training in Japan organizations abroad. Under the framework of Japan’s in fiscal 2013, making for a total of 3,179 trainees from 146 Connections with Broadcasting Organizations assistance funding, NHK sends its experts in broadcasting countries and regions to date. As of March 31, 2015, NHK has and accepting trainees from overseas. Co-productions are legal arrangements in place for the exchange of news and other Around the World developed and programs and news materials are provided to material with 65 broadcasters outside of Japan. broadcasters outside of Japan under legal agreements. Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU)
NHK is making an international contribution in programming NHK is also a key member of Public Broadcasters International The JAPAN PRIZE www.nhk.or.jp/jp-prize/english/ and technology as one of the key members and original (PBI) and has active ties with the European Broadcasting sponsors of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), Union (EBU). The JAPAN PRIZE is an international contest for educational which marked its 50th anniversary in 2014. As of March content that was established by NHK in 1965. In 2015, it 31, 2015, the ABU had more than 270 members in about 65 celebrates its 50th anniversary in improving the quality countries and regions that are home to more than 3 billion of educational content and promoting better international people. NHK provided inspiration for the ABU Robot Contest, understanding. and is involved in a range of other ABU activities, including the ABU Digista Teens project and the Asia Vision project for exchanging news materials, as well as co-production and Hikaru Doumoto, sharing of dramas and documentaries for children, technical NHK Executive The Grand Prix Japan Prize 2014 assistance, and collaboration on international standards. Vice-President, There were 320 entries from 62 countries and regions in 2014. at ABU’s General The panel of international judges consisted of 12 experts from Assembly nine countries active in research and content production on the front line of educational media. The judges commenced by ABU Robocon carefully viewing the works by category and chose the prize winners. The Grand Prix Japan Prize 2014 was awarded to The ABU Robot Contest brings together robots designed and nurture young engineers and technical exchanges, contributing a documentary that focused on a father’s attempts to inspire built by selected teams of university students from the member to the development of the Asia-Pacific region. broader social change. countries and regions of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union. The contest is held in a different location each year, the first The Grand Prix Japan Prize 2014 It is also an international program co-production in which taking place in Tokyo in August 2002. Since only one team Project Wild Thing (UK) participating TV stations air highlights of the contest from qualifies from each country or region, the students take pride in the images provided by the host broadcaster. The event helps representing their nation. Best TV Proposal Robocon 2014 in India The JAPAN PRIZE promotes the production of educational programs in countries and regions with limited resources. The Eighteen teams from 17 countries and regions took part in the Japan and Vietnam reached the final, as was the case in the winning proposal is made into a TV program and broadcast in ABU Robocon 2014 in Pune, western India. It was organized 2013 contest in Da Nang. Japan was represented by a team of the recipient’s country or region. by Doordarshan, in collaboration with the Maharashtra newcomers from the Nagoya Institute of Technology, while Institute of Technology. (As host, India was permitted to field Vietnam was represented by a team from Lac Hong University, two teams.) which had appeared in the last four contests. The latter won convincingly, avenging its defeat in the previous year. The theme was “a salute to parenthood.” A parent robot had to Ms. Glynis Beukes-Kapa (center) help a child robot along a seesaw, pole-walk, swing, and jungle Televisi Republik Indonesia will be hosting the Robocon 2015 Namibian Broadcasting Corporation, gym. The team whose robots could achieve these tasks in the in Yogyakarta on August 23, the first time the contest will take the winner of the Best TV Proposal shortest time won the championship. place in Indonesia. IPCEM The International Producers Conference for Educational Media The conference serves as a forum for international experts to share their visions of the future and to discuss how media can solve the problems of education.
Spectators at the contest Robots from the Indonesian team Egyptian supporters Contest won by the Vietnamese team
23 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 24 Program Sales and Acquisitions www.nhk-ep.co.jp/en/
Many documentaries, dramas, and animated programs Research and Archives produced by NHK have been made available internationally via NHK’s affiliated organization, NHK Enterprises, Inc. In fiscal 2014, nearly 8,500 programs were sold to broadcasting NHK Broadcasting Culture Research Institute www.nhk.or.jp/bunken/english/ organizations in 41 countries and regions. A unique broadcaster-operated research NHK also screens high-quality programs and movies center established in 1946. The institute produced by broadcasters and production companies looks into all aspects of broadcasting, overseas. In fiscal 2014, NHK acquired 1,391 programs via including usage of the Japanese language, NHK Enterprises, Inc. public opinion surveys, data analysis, © 2015Viacom International Inc. All rights reserved. developments in other broadcasters around the world, changes in the media Supplying Programs www.nhkint.or.jp/en/ environment and new broadcasting services. Researchers share their work NHK Broadcasting Culture Research NHK programs are provided via NHK International, Inc., to through presentations, publications, Institute 2015 Forum countries that are recipients of Japanese Official Development and websites, contributing to NHK Assistance, Cultural Grant Assistance from the Ministry of programming, production, management, Foreign Affairs, or grants from the Japan Foundation. and planning. NHK Broadcasting Culture Research Institute and In fiscal 2014, 2,071 programs were provided to 7 countries. NHK Museum of Broadcasting
Ama-chan NHK Museum of Broadcasting www.nhk.or.jp/museum/english/
International Co-production www.nhk.or.jp/co-pro/e/ Established in 1956 on the former site of the Tokyo Broadcasting Station (the Over the past 35 years, NHK has undertaken co-production forerunner of NHK,) the museum is the projects with broadcasters, production companies, and LIFE FORCE 2 world’s first such institution dedicated distributors from all over the world. With over 750 programs to broadcasting. The exhibits and events In coproduction with NHNZ (New in its co-production catalog, NHK continues to open up new Zealand), CCTV9 (China), Sci- provide a fun way to learn about broad- horizons in the field. ence Channel(US), Discovery casting, and about the history and International(US), ARTE(France) culture associated with it. The program In fiscal 2014, NHK aired 32 co-produced titles. and SVT(Sweden) and historical archives are available to In an effort to create large-scale programs with leading-edge researchers. The museum is currently Exhibits at the NHK Museum of Broadcasting technology and innovative style, NHK is constantly seeking closed for a renovation for the 90th partners for NHK-originated co-production projects. anniversary of broadcasting in Japan, and is due to reopen in December 2015. NHK is also seeking partnerships with broadcasters HUMAN LIFE - Our Amazing Cells and production companies with ambitious ideas for co- NHK Archives www.nhk.or.jp/archives/ production. Our recent partners are from France, Germany, In coproduction with Autentic/ MDR (Germany) and MEN (UAE) the Netherlands, U.S., Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, NHK Archives stores the largest collection and China. of TV and radio programs, and video in Japan with more than 850,000 programs In today’s world, in order to tackle everyday issues, be and 6 million items of news footage. they interpersonal, societal, or environmental, it is Challenging Special archives of witness accounts from vital to explore those issues from various perspectives. Co- the Paranormal World War II and the Great East Japan production can be a way to exchange thoughts and ideas Earthquake are available online. In coproduction with Docland and to enable us to find better solutions. Yard/ RMC Découverte (France)
Visitors to the Creative Library website can edit their own programs by downloading NHK’s footage.
In the Quest for the Birthplace of Stars: China’s Yellow River The Open Library shares 9,200 TV and radio programs with the public and is accessible through the libraries in In coproduction with NXTV (China) NHK broadcasting stations across Japan.
25 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 NHK ANNUAL REPORT 2015/2016 26 Serving Our Audience Supported by Audience
Since the Broadcast Law and the Wireless Telegraphy Law took effect in 1950, Japan’s broadcasting industry has NHK Studio Park developed through the coexistence of public broadcaster NHK and commercial broadcasters. This structure encourages healthy competition between NHK and the other broadcasters. Visitors can experience various features of NHK programs NHK’s origins go back to the Tokyo Broadcasting Station, which transmitted the first radio broadcast in Japan on March and learn more about many of the characters in the shows. 22, 1925. Initially incorporated as the nationwide broadcasting organization Nippon Hoso Kyokai, NHK was reestablished They can attend live broadcasts, go behind the scenes to under the terms of the Broadcast Law in 1950 as the nation’s public broadcaster. see how the news is produced, dub their own voices onto animated shows, and see demonstrations of many of the latest Financial Independence technologies and broadcasting equipment. NHK’s mission as a public broadcaster is to deliver The next generation of television, 8K Super Hi-Vision impartial, high-quality programs. Programs should never High-quality Experience the breathtaking realism of this cutting-edge technology be influenced by the government or private organizations. news & programs NHK considers it to be the corporation’s responsibility to Culture and Community provide a wide range of programs that are balanced, without the influence of ratings or third party interests. Receiving fees NHK audiences can enjoy first-rate artists, musicians, and performers taking part in events around the globe. NHK features domestic and international culture through its Receiving Fee System programming and the exhibitions and concerts it organizes in
Japan. © Prague Spring Festival – The receiving fee system guarantees NHK’s independence. Law stipulates that receiving fees shall be paid equally by Zdenek Chrapek Viewers are not asked to pay to access specific programs, but every household and business in Japan with a television set. Exhibitions will be held in conjunction with the NHK special NHK Music Festival “NHK Nodo Jiman” to support the operations of NHK as a whole. The Broadcast Conductor Paavo Järvi amateur song contest program “Leaps in Evolution,” which is being produced to Receiving fees (tax included) commemorate the 90th anniversary of broadcasting in Japan. Fee per Six-month Twelve-month The National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo will Type of contact month advance payment advance payment * Satellite contract includes fee for hold an exhibition of the same name shedding light on the Account transfer/ Terrestrial Credit card ¥1,260 ¥7,190 ¥13,990 terrestrial contract evolution of life, and there will be another exhibition “A Contract * Receiving fee in Okinawa Prefecture is Postal order ¥1,310 ¥7,475 ¥14,545 History of the World in 100 Objects” from the collection of different from that in the rest of Japan Account transfer/ ¥2,230 ¥12,730 ¥24,770 * Viewers can choose their payment the British Museum. Satellite Credit card Contract cycle: every two months, every six Postal order ¥2,280 ¥13,015 ¥25,320 months, or every year NHK audiences have the opportunity to take part in programs, such as the weekly “NHK Nodo Jiman” amateur song contest, and “Shin BS Nippon no Uta” which features Fiscal 2015 Budget (General Accounts) favorite songs, old and new. A total of 279 programs were recorded before live audiences in fiscal 2014. NHK’s fiscal year starts in April and finishes in March of the following year. Total operating income Total operating expenditure NHK is also keen about sports, organizing and broadcasting Receiving fees: Program proudction and Program surveys and technical international sporting events, such as the NHK Trophy figure © Japan Sports Exhibition in conjunction with 660.8 billion yen(97.0%) transmisson (international) : research : skating competition. Attention is focused on upcoming events, “Leaps in Evolution” 27.9 billion yen(4.1%) 22.1 billion yen(3.3%) ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Fossil known as “Ida” Other income: such as the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2014 / 2015, NHK Trophy Photo: Per Aas, Natural History 683.1 22.3 billion yen(3.3%) 676.9 Processing of receiving Management and administration : billion yen billion yen contracts and fee collection : 25.1 billion yen(3.7%) Museum, University of Oslo, 73.5 billion yen(10.9%) Norway Financial costs, extraordinary Reception services : losses and reserves : 4.5 billion yen(0.7%) Receiving fees are the main source of income for NHK. 5.6 billion yen(0.8%) Public relations : Program proudction and transmis- son (domestic) : Campaigns as a Public Broadcaster 7.3 billion yen(1.1%) 510.6 billion yen(75.4%) NHK is involved in campaigns around Japan focusing on 20th NHK’s Exhibition issues of public concern, including social welfare, disaster of the Heart Listening to Viewers’ Opinions prevention, food, the environment, and regional issues. The Poem by Chiharu “NHK Heart Exhibition” marking its twentieth occasion, Tanabe (a 17-year-old NHK’s broadcasting stations nationwide and its call center, shared with the relevant departments. In fiscal 2014, NHK psychically disabled presents works with a heart motif by celebrities, artists, and person) NHK Fureai Center, dealing with enquiries from our audiences received approximately 4 million comments and enquiries, in people with disabilities, on the basis of poems from disabled Art work by illustrator and listening to viewers’ opinions. The staff aim to provide the form of telephone calls, faxes, letters, e-mail messages, and people. The aim is to promote “hearts without barriers.” Hajime Ando responses as quickly as possible and viewers’ opinions are so on.
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1925 Mar. 22 First radio broadcast by Tokyo Broadcasting Station The Board of Governors is the decision-making The Executive Board is made up of the organiza- 1926 Aug. 20 Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya broadcasting stations merge to form Nippon Hoso Kyokai (Japan Broadcasting body for NHK’s management policy and operations. Its duties tion’s president, executive vice-president, executive directors, Corporation) include overseeing the annual budget, the operational plan, and senior directors. First nationwide radio broadcast and basic programming policy. The 12 governors on the board 1928 Nov. 5 make decisions that are impartial and in the public interest. 1930 Jun. 1 Science & Technology Research Laboratories established They are approved by both houses of the Diet on behalf of the 1931 Apr. 6 Second radio network goes on air people of Japan and are appointed by the Prime Minister. 1935 Jun.1 International radio broadcasts begin 1946 Jun. 15 Broadcasting Culture Research Institute established NHK Organizational Chart (Fiscal 2015) Secretariat 1950 Jun. 1 The Broadcast Law goes into effect and NHK is reestablished as a public broadcaster Secretariat for Study of New Broadcasting Center 1953 Feb. 1 First TV broadcast from NHK’s television studios in Tokyo General Affairs Department Jan. 10 First educational TV broadcast Secretariat for Board of Governors Human Resources Department 1959 Financial Department 1960 Sep. 10 First television broadcast in color Corporate Planning Department Group Planning & Management Department 1963 Nov. 23 First experimental transmission via satellite between Japan and the U.S. breaks the news of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy President Media Planning Bureau Board of Governors Executive Board Information Systems Department 1964 Oct. 10 Broadcasts of the Tokyo Olympic Games, the first Olympics in history to be aired via satellite and in color Risk Management Committee Secretariat for the Great East Japan Earthquake 1965 Oct. 11 Launch of the Japan Prize, an international contest for educational media Tokyo2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games Preparation Bureau Mar. 10 First FM radio broadcast Internal Audit Bureau General 1969 Announcers Bureau Program Inspection Bureau Broadcasting Jul. 21 Live TV coverage of the first person to set foot on the moon Administration News Commentators Bureau Oct. 10 All general TV programs broadcast in color Programming Department 1971 Audit Committee NHK on Demand Bureau 1982 Dec. 17 Sound multiplex broadcasts begin on TV Program Production Department 1985 Nov. 29 First teletext service begins News Department Jun. 1 Full-scale satellite broadcasting services begin Secretariat for Audit Committee 1989 Broadcast Engineering Department Nov. 25 Test broadcasts of NHK’s “Hi-Vision” HDTV system begin NHK WORLD Department 1994 Launch of international television channel Overseas Bureaus 1995 Apr. 3 Planning & Coordination Bureau Oct. NHK World TV begins 24-hour broadcasts General 1999 Administration of Public Relations Department Mar. The International Telecommunication Union approves Hi-Vision as the international studio standard Audience Relations 2000 Audience Services Department Dec. 1 Digital satellite broadcasting begins Engineering Administration Department Opening of NHK Archives Institute / Laboratories 2003 Feb. 1 Broadcasting Culture Research Institute Dec. 1 Digital terrestrial TV broadcasting begins Science & Technology Research Laboratories 2005 Mar. 8K (Super Hi-Vision) unveiled at Expo 2005 in Aichi, Japan Local Stations 2006 Apr. 1 One-Seg service for mobile receivers begins
Nov. 15 Live Hi-Vision transmission from space Principal Affiliated Organizations (Fiscal 2015) 2008 Aug. Hi-Vision used as international signal at the Beijing Olympic Games Subsidiaries Public Service Group Affiliated Organizations Dec. 1 Launch of “NHK on Demand” NHK ENTERPRISES, INC. NHK PUBLISHING, INC. NHK SERVICE CENTER, INC. Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation NHK EDUCATIONAL CORPORATION NHK BUSINESS CREATE INC. NHK INTERNATIONAL, INC. NHK Cosmomedia America, Inc. 2009 Feb. 2 NHK WORLD TV begins 24-hour English-language service NHK GLOBAL MEDIA SERVICES, INC. NHK INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY INC. NHK ENGINEERING SYSTEM, INC. NHK Cosmomedia (Europe) Limited 2011 Jul. 24 Analog broadcasts end (with exception of areas most severely affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake) JAPAN INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING INC. NHK CULTURE CENTER, INC. NHK COMMUNICATIONS TRAINING INSTITUTE BS Conditional Access Systems Co.,Ltd. NHK PLANNET, INC. NHK BUSINESS SERVICES INC. NHK ACADEMY OF DISTANCE LEARNING 2012 Mar. 31 Analog broadcasts end in Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima prefectures NHK PROMOTIONS INC. NHK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Aug. The ITU recommends 8K as the international standard for ultra-high definition television systems for produc- NHK ART, INC. NHK PUBLIC WELFARE ORGANIZATION tion and international program exchanges NHK MEDIA TECHNOLOGY, INC.
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