President Lee: "Support Culture and the Arts in Detail, but Avoid Interference"

Work Report by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Others on the 16th

President Lee Jae-myung is speaking at the work report held at the Government Sejong Convention Center on the 16th. Photo by Presidential Office Press Photographers Group

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for active government support in the field of culture and the arts.

Before the work report by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the National Heritage Administration, and the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission held at the Government Sejong Convention Center on the 16th, President Lee stated, "While some areas of culture and the arts may appear to receive attention, the overwhelming majority do not, and most practitioners face poverty. As this is a sector with a public function, government support is extremely important."

President Lee continued, "It seems that the era has arrived in which South Korea is being recognized as a cultural powerhouse. Depending on how we respond, our international standing will continue to rise, and the growing awareness of our culture will greatly contribute to the export of products and services as well as to our economic growth."

He added, "When people like a country, a company, or its people, a sense of affinity naturally develops. While culture elevates a nation's status, even from a practical perspective, it is a very crucial factor for economic and industrial development."

President Lee also addressed the direction of cultural and artistic policy. He said, "Large-scale projects are not the only important ones. The key is to provide detailed and comprehensive support without interference." He added, "Policies should encourage artists and be able to earn their empathy."

Regarding current issues in the sports sector, he said, "Because there are hierarchical practices and customs among members, issues of violence and morality are repeatedly raised. While support should be provided, it is also important to ensure that each organization and group is operated in a democratic, transparent, and fair manner so that members can enjoy their rightful benefits."