Korean Government Gives Culture a Boost

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has announced it will invest US $274 million in local cultural content industries between 2009 and 2013 in an effort to become a major player in the global entertainment market.

Under the plan, $67 million has been earmarked for the animation sector, another $40 million for character-driven content, $33.3 million to support comics, and $134 million to develop skilled professionals in the related fields.

Additionally, a 'killer idea' public contest will be held annually in which the ministry will select between three and five projects, providing them with $670,000 each to be nurtured into global products.

The funds will benefit both the film and broadcasting industries with the comics fund in particular geared towards supporting creative works that have both export and film adaptation potential.

Nigel D'Sa (KOFIC)

Advertisement