Minister Choi Hwi-young Congratulates Director Park Chan-wook: "Korean Cinema's Global Prestige Proven"

Choi Hwi-young, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, sent a congratulatory message to Director Park Chan-wook on May 18, celebrating his receipt of the Commandeur, the highest rank of France's Order of Arts and Letters, and expressing support for his future endeavors.

Minister Choi said, "I sincerely congratulate you on being awarded the Commandeur, France’s most prestigious Order of Arts and Letters. This honor not only firmly demonstrates the global stature of Korean cinema, but also serves as an opportunity to elevate pride in our culture and the arts." He added, "Your unique and blossoming body of work has become a source of inspiration for creators around the world. I deeply admire your artistic achievements, which have captivated the world, as well as your pioneering spirit that has opened new horizons in the history of Korean cinema."

Minister Choi also mentioned that this year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France, saying, "I hope you will continue to serve as a bridge that strengthens the cultural bonds between the two countries, and I will continue to support your remarkable journey."

Director Park Chan-wook (right) is taking a commemorative photo with Catherine Pegard, French Minister of Culture, after being awarded the Commandeur medal in Cannes, France, on the 17th (local time). Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

Director Park Chan-wook was awarded the Commandeur medal by Catherine Pegard, French Minister of Culture, in Cannes, France, on the 17th (local time).

Since 1957, the French government has been awarding the Order of Arts and Letters to individuals who have excelled in creative activities in the fields of art and literature, or have contributed to enhancing the international standing of French culture. The Order consists of three grades: Commandeur (1st class), Officier (2nd class), and Chevalier (3rd class). Park Chan-wook is the fourth Korean to receive the Commandeur medal, following former President of the Korea Arts & Culture Education Service Kim Jeong-ok (2002), conductor Myung-Whun Chung (2011), and soprano Sumi Jo (2025).

Director Park also served as the jury president of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, which opened in Cannes, France, on May 12.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.