Nippon TV to Exit BS4K, Will Not Apply for New License

Nippon TV Holdings said it will not apply for a new BS4K license, effectively exiting BS4K broadcasting.

The decision was made by BS Nippon's president and announced at Nippon TV's March 30 meeting; the current license runs until January 23, 2027.

Broadcasters cited weak viewer growth and high production costs; BS Fuji and BS TV Tokyo already announced BS4K shutdowns.

All five stations plan to offer 4K programs free on WOWOW On Demand, and Nippon TV said it will keep producing 4K content for streaming use.