The Evolution of Cable Regulatory Policies and Their Impact: A Comparison of South Korea and Israel

Abstract

This study compares policy history and the development of cable television in South Korea and Israel. Tracking the evolution of cable policy in each country, it assesses effects on the market and draws conclusions that may be applied in other countries. The study adopts a model created by McQuali, de Mateo, and Tapper (1992) and the industrial organization model as its descriptive tools. The study focuses on market performance in two countries that made a transition from an old order of government planning to a new order of increased market autonomy, with similar goals in mind and in response to similar pressures, while employing different market structures. Although the policies adopted and their outcomes differed in terms of competition structure, market conduct, and performance, similar outcomes patterns were observed. These differences and similarities can help explain success and failure in regulating cable markets.