On June 30, President Lee Jae-myung underscored the importance of culture as both a creator of jobs and a driver of national strength, speaking at the event “Dream of a Cultural Power, Korea Reaching Out to the World.” 

President Lee revealed that the inspiration to pursue the cultural industry as a new growth engine struck him during his presidential campaign, when he watched the drama “Happily Ever After” and was deeply impressed by the potential of Korean culture. 

He acknowledged the challenges in setting priorities for cultural policy and in selecting a new culture minister, stressing the need for policies that break free from bureaucratic debates and truly reflect voices from the field.

Key figures at the event, held at Pinegrass, included Park Chhun-hyu, writer of the Tony Award-winning musical “Maybe Happy Ending,” operatic soprano Sumi Cho, recipient of France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Commandeur); director Heo Ga-young, recent winner at the 78th Cannes International Film Festival student section; ballet dancer Park Yoon-jae, winner of the Prix de Lausanne; and director Kim Won-seok of “Happily Ever After.”

Director Kim attributed the global appeal of Korean narratives to their universality and humanism. He emphasized the urgent need for large-scale film sets, citing the lack of dedicated facilities in Korea and referencing China’s Bund as a successful case.

Soprano Sumi Cho stated that Korean Cultural Centers abroad should serve as vital hubs on the international stage, highlighting the importance of government support to help artists fully demonstrate their capabilities.

Ballet dancer Park Yoon-jae pointed out the difficulties faced by male Korean dancers in pursuing international opportunities due to mandatory military service.

Director Heo Ga-young called for expanded government support for independent and art films, sharing that her own international success was made possible by the Korean Academy of Film Arts. She appealed for increased training programs for aspiring filmmakers.

Writer Park Chhun-hyu emphasized that connecting creators with the global stage requires practical support measures. He stressed that art made with the Korean language and sensibility cannot flourish globally without active governmental backing.

President Lee affirmed that “investment in culture raises the standards of society,” and suggested the introduction of a basic income program for cultural artists.

Meanwhile, First Lady Kim Hye-gyeong, who attended the event, referenced the phrase “This door opens to the world,” inscribed at the entrance of her alma mater, Sunhwa Arts High School. She expressed hope that artists could achieve greater success on the global stage thanks to government support.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Republic of Korea Policy Briefing