Ustream Korea Inc., a live video streaming platform operator, vowed on Thursday to play a leading role in spreading the Korean Wave, or hallyu, globally by initiating a live broadcasting service.

The former Korean operation of U.S.-based Ustream Inc. has become an affiliate of the country’s mobile carrier giant KT, which holds 51 percent of its total share.

“We would like to open up a new age where people who had been unable to voice their opinion can speak up, experience live streaming and share live broadcasting services,” Ustream Korea chief executive Jimmy Kim said in a press conference held in KT Seoul headquarters.

“(Ustream Korea Inc.) will become a global live portal that provides diverse and high-quality content through recent website revamp and stronger cooperation with KT.”

Since the company’s creation in March 2012, Ustream Korea has elaborated on upgrading the portal into a higher version and supporting live content with high potential.

The company’s video-streaming platform now takes the form of a live portal, making it easier for users to search and share live video content. The is also connected with popular social network services such as Facebook, on which users’ reviews are immediately copied and posted.

Ustream Korea said that it plans to distribute a larger amount of Korean cultural content abroad. The firm has uploaded domestic content such as KT Olleh TV, Genie, Olleh Music and KT Sports so far, and has co-developed Korean music content with large entertainment firms here including S.M. and JYP.

By Chung Joo-won (joowonc@heraldcorp.com)