JYP founder to lead new presidential pop culture committee

President Lee Jae Myung on September 9 announced the establishment of a new presidential commission for international pop culture exchange and nominated Park Jin-young, founder and chief producer of JYP Entertainment, and Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young as its inaugural co-chairs.

Presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik unveiled the appointments during a press briefing at the presidential office in Yongsan District, central Seoul.

Introducing Park, Kang said he was “one of Korea’s most iconic singers who has long worked to globalize K-pop. He will help create a Korea where culture flourishes as people around the world embrace Korean pop culture, and Koreans, in turn, engage more deeply with global cultures.”

Park expressed his thoughts on the nomination via Instagram the same day.

“Being entrusted with a government role is an immense burden and concern for someone working in the entertainment industry, so I deliberated a lot,” he wrote. “But I ultimately decided to accept, believing that K-pop is facing an extraordinary opportunity right now — one we absolutely must seize.”

Park added that his dream is for K-pop to be truly beloved around the world.

“Based on my experience working in the field, I will identify areas where institutional support is needed and help ensure effective assistance is provided,” he said.

“I will also do my best to help younger artists gain better opportunities,” he continued. “I hope K-pop can evolve beyond merely promoting Korean culture to becoming a platform for people around the world to connect and understand one another.” He concluded by asking for advice and support.

BY HYEON YE-SEUL [kim.minyoung5@joongang.co.kr]