Ministry aims for “Culture for all, a cultural power connecting the world”
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism announced on Friday that it will implement a series of policies under the theme “culture for all, a cultural power connecting the world” for 2025.
With a focus on overcoming domestic and global economic uncertainties through cultural initiatives, the ministry aims to support vulnerable businesses and individuals. Recognizing challenges in the tourism sector, a special loan program of 50 billion won ($34 million) will be introduced for tourism businesses, while one million special discount coupons for accommodations will be distributed to promote travel and support the industry.
The ministry projects that exports from the Korean content industry will reach 165 trillion won, an increase from 151 trillion won in 2023. To achieve this, a 100 billion won Global League Fund will be established to attract foreign investments, and a 500 billion won K-Content and Media Fund, capable of large-scale investments, will become fully operational. Cultural industry guarantees will be expanded to 220 billion won, covering all stages from content planning and production to distribution. Additionally, measures will be implemented to reduce production costs in the content industry, including sectors such as games, music and publishing.
To further support exports, the number of overseas business centers will increase from 25 to 30, and strategic export support will be strengthened for key regions such as China, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Groundwork will also begin this year on major projects, including the K-Content Cultural Complex, Global Video City and the Hall of Fame for Popular Culture and Arts, which aim to shape the future of K-content over the next 30 years, according to the ministry.
Efforts are also focused on preparing for the future with advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence and realizing the vision of becoming a cultural nation that bridges the world. Following the National Assembly's passage of the Basic Act on the Development of Artificial Intelligence and the Establishment of Trust on Dec. 26 -- making South Korea the second country to enact a comprehensive AI law after the European Union -- the Culture Ministry plans to unveil the Content Industry Future Strategy for the AI Era in the first half of the year. This strategy will outline the nation’s AI content roadmap through 2035.
Additionally, the ministry will pursue amendments to the Copyright Act and the enactment of the Publicity Rights Act to safeguard creators and promote harmonious coexistence within the AI industry.
With the Basic Act for Hallyu Industry Promotion taking effect this year, a mid- to long-term strategy for Hallyu industry development will be announced within the year. In June, a Hallyu festival tentatively titled Beyond K Festa will be held.
Cultural exchange and cooperation will also be strengthened with countries designated for the Years of Mutual Cultural Exchange, including Korea-Japan-China (2025–2026), Canada and Italy (2024–2025), as well as countries celebrating diplomatic anniversaries, such as Egypt (30th anniversary) and Singapore (50th anniversary).
“Despite challenging circumstances, we will vigorously pursue policies in the fields of culture, sports, and tourism this year, ensuring that all citizens can enjoy culture in their daily lives and that the livelihoods of the people recover quickly,” said Minister Yu In-chon. “In particular, with the 80th anniversary of liberation, the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic normalization, and the APEC Summit as key opportunities, we will strive to create a new future through culture and fulfill our role in connecting Korea with the world,” he added.
