Paris: Renowned Korean soprano Sumi Jo received France's Commandeur of the Order of Arts and Letters on Monday in recognition of her contributions to French arts and culture. The 62-year-old soprano was awarded the highest rank of the three-tier honor from the French Ministry of Culture during an award ceremony held at the Opera-Comique in Paris.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jo expressed her gratitude at the ceremony, stating, "Receiving such an honor is beyond anything I could have imagined. It feels like I've reached the pinnacle today." She further added that while the honor is a great privilege, it also marks a new beginning for her, as she aims to dedicate herself even more to the younger generation by supporting and inspiring them.
The Order of Arts and Letters, established in 1957, is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in the fields of art and literature or who have contributed to promoting French culture globally. This recognition also highlights Jo's recent contributions, such as launching her first international vocal competition in July last year at the historic Chateau de la Ferte-Imbault in France's Loire Valley, aimed at supporting talented young vocalists on the global stage.
Next year marks the 40th anniversary of Jo's debut, and she is planning various events both at home and abroad. In June, she will embark on a concert tour in China and South Korea with the winners of the 1st Sumi Jo International Singing Competition. Additionally, she is preparing a solo concert next year to commemorate the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. The biennial Sumi Jo International Competition will host its second edition in July next year.