Park Ki-yong, Chairperson of Kofic, Steps Down as Local Film Industry Grapples with Pandemic Impact and Government Budget Cuts

Courtesy of KOREAN FILM COUNCIL

Korean Film Council (Kofic) Chairperson Park Ki-yong revealed on Monday his decision to resign, effective Wednesday, amid ongoing challenges faced by the local film industry in recovering from the pandemic, exacerbated by the government's budget cut for 2024. Park has held the position since January 2022. 

▲ Courtesy of KOREAN FILM COUNCIL

Expressing a sense of responsibility for the industry's struggles, Park announced his resignation during a ceremony on Monday, citing the collective efforts made over the past two years to overcome the significant crisis that befell the Korean film sector in the aftermath of Covid-19.

Upon stepping down, Park plans to return to his previous role as a professor at Dankook University’s Graduate School of Culture, Arts and Design. He emphasized his commitment to actively participating in the film industry to contribute towards the resurgence of Korean films.

The Korean Film Council will appoint an acting chief next month to fill the vacancy left by Park's departure.

Throughout his tenure, Park achieved notable milestones, including the launch of the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN) last year—a film cooperation organization with participation from seven Asian countries. Additionally, he advocated for the establishment of a film studio, aligning with one of the council’s longstanding goals.

Simultaneously, Kofic's Secretary General, Kwon Byung-kyun, also announced his resignation on Monday. Kwon had assumed the role in January 2023.

Sayart

Sayart, sayart2022@gmail.com