Asian channel's new price: free: rebranded Mnet seeks basic-cable distribution.(CONTENT)

MNET, A CABLE CHANNEL aimed at Asian-Americans, is hoping to gain basic-cable carriage distribution by offering its service free to operators.

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The network, formerly dubbed ImaginAsian TV, is hoping to reach young Asian Americans with a mix of Korean-based music, films and drama series that can also have a broader appeal among mainstream American audiences, according to Mnet board director Adam Ware.

Currently in 8 million homes through carriage deals with Time Warner Cable, Charter Communications, Cox Communications and Verizon Communications, Ware said the network's recent relaunch under its new owners--South Korea-based entertainment …