Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choi Hwi-young sent a congratulatory message Tuesday to director Park Chan-wook, who received the highest grade of France's Order of Arts and Letters from the French government. The honor is particularly welcome as the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has been making all-out efforts to revive the slumping film market under the Lee Jae-myung administration.
"I sincerely congratulate you on receiving the 'Commandeur,' the world-renowned French Order of Arts and Letters," Choi said in the message. "This award firmly proves the global standing of Korea's film industry and serves as an opportunity to elevate the pride of our culture and arts."
"The unparalleled body of work you have cultivated has become a source of inspiration for creators around the world," he added. "I send deep praise for your artistic achievements that have captivated the world and the spirit of challenge that has opened a new horizon in Korean film history."
Choi also referenced various events marking the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations this year, adding, "I hope you will serve as a bridge to further solidify the cultural solidarity between the two countries, and I will continue to support your great journey ahead."
Earlier on Monday (local time), French Culture Minister Catherine Pégard awarded Park the Commandeur medal in Cannes, France. The Order of Arts and Letters is given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding creative activity in the arts and literature or have contributed to elevating the international standing of French culture. It is divided into three grades — Chevalier, Officier and Commandeur — with Commandeur being the highest.
Alongside the growth of the Korean film industry, partnerships with France, a film powerhouse in Europe, are expanding further. At the Korea-France summit in April, French President Emmanuel Macron proposed to President Lee Jae-myung that the two countries co-host the International Film and Video Industry Summit to be held in France this September.
Choi separately shared his thoughts via social media on the same day. "This is a wonderful and meaningful triumph that once again proves the standing of Korean cinema to the world," he wrote. "France's highest honor in the arts and culture field is said to be the fourth ever awarded to a Korean, following former Korean Culture and Arts Foundation President Kim Jung-ok, conductor Chung Myung-whun and soprano Sumi Jo. I am deeply grateful for enhancing our nation's prestige."
Park is currently serving as the jury president of the 79th Cannes International Film Festival, which opened in Cannes, France, on May 12.
