Disney has initiated a major leadership transition in its critical Asia-Pacific division, appointing 20-year company veteran Carol Choi as the new president of the region. The move, announced Tuesday, sees Choi stepping into the role on Dec. 1 to replace outgoing executive Luke Kang, who is retiring after a 16-year tenure at the entertainment giant.
Choi, who currently serves as the executive vice president for The Walt Disney Company Asia-Pacific, will inherit an expansive portfolio. Her oversight will include Disney Entertainment’s diverse operations across Greater China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Her responsibilities are vast, covering everything from studio productions and Disney+ operations to localized original content creation, consumer products, and media networks.
A Proven Leader for a High-Stakes Market
The appointment of Choi signals a strategic shift toward continuity and deep institutional knowledge as Disney navigates an increasingly competitive streaming landscape. Having joined the company in 2006, Choi has built a reputation for navigating the complexities of Asian markets, having previously served as the managing director for Japan and South Korea, as well as holding key positions during the company’s massive growth period in Greater China throughout the 2010s.
In her most recent capacity, Choi played a pivotal role in the rollout of Disney+ and the development of the company’s regional content strategy. Her expertise in integrating marketing and studio operations is expected to be vital as Disney attempts to fend off intensifying local and global competition in the region’s burgeoning digital markets.
Scaling International Content and Streaming Ambitions
Disney’s leadership change arrives at a time when the company is doubling down on its international streaming production. Executives have previously indicated plans to triple the production of international original series over the next three years. Asia-Pacific is viewed as the cornerstone of this plan, with South Korea emerging as a powerhouse hub for hit content.
Under the guidance of outgoing president Luke Kang, Disney successfully launched Disney+ and bolstered its library with regional hits such as A Shop for Killers and Perfect Crown. Choi is now tasked with maintaining this momentum. Her focus will likely involve continuing to leverage AI-driven data analytics and regional audience insights to refine content investment, ensuring that the company’s upcoming slate—which includes highly anticipated titles like The Remarried Empress—resonates with the unique cultural preferences of its vast, diverse viewer base.
A Legacy of Growth and Future Focus
The transition marks the end of an era for Luke Kang, who oversaw the company’s rapid expansion and digitalization efforts in the region. Reflecting on his departure, Disney Entertainment Studios Chairman Alan Bergman and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Choi’s “broad operating experience” and “strong creative instincts,” labeling her the ideal candidate to steer the company through its next phase of growth.
For her part, Choi expressed enthusiasm for the challenge, noting that she intends to build upon the foundation laid by Kang. “Asia Pacific is home to some of the world’s most passionate fans and dynamic creative communities,” Choi said in a statement. “I look forward to working with our teams and partners to bring exceptional stories and experiences to audiences.”
As Disney continues to refine its global streaming technology stack and content delivery systems, the appointment of a seasoned executive like Choi suggests the company is prioritizing stable, experienced leadership to manage the intricate cultural and technological demands of the Asia-Pacific region. By leaning into local original productions, Disney hopes to solidify its footprint in one of the world’s most competitive tech and media environments.
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