### Longest-Running Television Programs: "Meet the Press" and "Janghakquiz"

Television has long been a pervasive and influential medium in cultures around the world, not just as a source of entertainment but also as a vital conduit for information and education. Different countries have their unique television histories, marked by landmark programs that have stood the test of time. In the context of the longest-running television programs, two shows—“Meet the Press” from the United States and “Janghakquiz” from South Korea—highlight the diversity in content and format but share the common characteristic of long-standing viewer engagement.

#### **Meet the Press (United States)**

"Meet the Press" holds the distinction of being the longest-running program in the history of American television. Premiering on November 6, 1947, on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), it is a cornerstone in the realm of political commentary and news analysis. The program was created by producer Martha Rountree and journalist Lawrence E. Spivak, initially conceived as a radio show before making the transition to television. It has since become a significant platform for political interviews, panel discussions, and debates, featuring a broad spectrum of guests including presidents, heads of state, politicians, and other public figures.

The format of "Meet the Press" typically involves a one-on-one interview with a prominent public figure, followed by a roundtable discussion with a panel of journalists and experts who dissect the week's political happenings. This format has evolved slightly over the decades but remains true to its roots of rigorous journalistic inquiry. The enduring appeal of "Meet the Press" can be attributed to its commitment to in-depth, substantive discourse on pressing political and social issues, a quality that has made it a staple in American households and maintained its relevancy in the fast-paced world of news.

#### **Janghakquiz (South Korea)**

On the other side of the world, South Korea boasts its longstanding educational program “Janghakquiz,” which has been a central part of Korean broadcast television. First airing in 1973, "Janghakquiz" translates to "Scholarship Quiz," and as the title suggests, it is an academic quiz show that is televised nationally. The program invites high school students from across the country to compete in a series of quizzes that cover a wide range of subjects, from mathematics and science to history and literature.

The structure of "Janghakquiz" includes various rounds of questions, where students must buzz in to answer. Points are awarded for correct responses, with the possibility of earning scholarships and other educational benefits. The show is celebrated not only for its entertainment value but also for its role in promoting education, motivating students, and highlighting academic achievement amongst young people. Over the decades, "Janghakquiz" has adapted its format slightly to stay contemporary and relevant but remains committed to its educational ethos.

#### **Cultural Impact and Legacy**

Both "Meet the Press" and "Janghakquiz" serve as outstanding examples of programs that have not only stood the test of time but have also profoundly impacted their respective societies. "Meet the Press" has shaped and mirrored the American public’s engagement with politics and public affairs, adapting to the changing landscape of media and remaining a critical forum for discussion and debate. Similarly, "Janghakquiz" has influenced generations of Korean students, underlining the cultural importance of education in South Korea and encouraging a spirit of academic competitiveness and excellence.

Through their different formats and focus—political analysis in the U.S. and educational competition in South Korea—these programs reflect the values and priorities of their societies. As such, they remain more than just entertainment; they are integral parts of their nations' cultural and public life, providing value that endures across decades. Their longevity is a testament to their ability to adapt, their quality of content, and their resonance with viewers, distinguishing them as television landmarks in their respective countries.