This study analyzed cross-media storytelling for the successful webtoon, <The Murderer> by author Kkombi, and the Netflix drama <Murderer>, which was converted into an OTT drama. Through this case analysis, this paper attempted to specify successful and insufficient elements in the media transition process and, based on this, propose a successful cross-media storytelling strategy for OTT dramas based on webtoons.
As a result of the study, in terms of the integrated plot and episodes, OTT dramas used a binge-watching strategy that emphasized the connectivity of each episode and an open ending with a season system in mind, depending on the medium of the OTT platform. However, the sense of theme faded as it failed to properly condense and visualize the vast webtoon story into a drama. In the relationship between characters at the level of the series, the characters were recreated and flattened beyond the original's intention, and the relationships between characters also faded as they were limited to superficial descriptions. In terms of discourse, the drama was sensuously composed using various video expression techniques to create a difference from the webtoon, but the technique was overused, so the effect was halved.
Based on these specific research results, this paper proposes 'selection and reconstruction of episodes that prioritize the theme of the original work' and 'video expression that can reveal the strengths of the medium' as cross-media storytelling strategies for OTT dramas. The actual value of can be found.
