Paris: South Korea and France have agreed to expand cultural exchanges ahead of the 140th anniversary of their treaty of friendship and commerce, which established formal diplomatic ties between the two nations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Culture Minister Yu In-chon and his French counterpart, Rachida Dati, signed a letter of intent on cultural cooperation at the French Culture Ministry headquarters in Paris. The Treaty of Friendship and Commerce, signed on June 4, 1886, was the first modern agreement between the Joseon Dynasty and France and marked the fifth such treaty with a Western power.
Yu emphasized the longevity and resilience of the Korea-France relationship despite changes in the international political landscape since the treaty's signing. The new agreement will see the development of cooperative systems between institutions in culture, arts, and heritage. The two countries will collaborate on production, performances, exhibitions, and promotional efforts.
The agreement also includes plans to expand cooperation in cultural industries such as film, audiovisual content, and games. There will be a focus on collaboration in the protection, preservation, management, and accessibility of cultural, intangible, and natural heritage.
Both nations agreed to prepare a range of events to mark the anniversary, including a special celebration and South Korea's role as the guest of honor at the Paris Book Fair. South Korea will also organize a cultural festival in major French cities, working with local governments and cultural institutions.
Yu noted the recent popularity of Korean culture in France, including K-pop and the drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines," highlighting the potential for cooperation. Through this letter of intent, both countries aim to promote cultural exchange events that will resonate with their people.