Government Strengthens Support for Performing Arts Sector in Preparation for 'Post-Corona' Era

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] On the 10th, the government announced that it will support the creation of permanent jobs in the related industry as the performing arts sector, which had suffered difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, recently showed signs of recovery.

Ando-geol, Vice Minister of Strategy and Finance, held a meeting with young talent from the performing arts sector at the 'Artist's House' multipurpose hall in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the same day, stating, "Considering that the performing arts industry is a field highly preferred by young people and has high potential for job creation, we will focus on manpower support projects to create permanent quality jobs in the future."

As of 2018, the employment inducement coefficient in the arts, sports, leisure, and service sectors was 14.29, higher than manufacturing (6.19) or service industries (12.82). However, as COVID-19 spread last year, various performances were suspended, and related companies faced closures, experiencing difficulties.

In response, the government provided 7,100 emergency jobs twice through supplementary budgets last year. Recently, it was found that the performing arts sector's sales have recovered to 86% (performance count 80%) compared to before COVID-19.

The government announced that it will allocate budgets focusing on four areas: ▲expansion of the performing arts market ▲entry into overseas markets ▲strengthening public jobs ▲reinforcement of the creative foundation for emerging creators. In line with the recent trend toward non-face-to-face transitions, it will support the activation of online streaming services and promote the video production project of performances at national theaters. Additionally, through the first-ever K-Musical Investment Expo held this year, it will support overseas performances and investment attraction mentoring for domestic original musicals.

Vice Minister Ando-geol said, "We will establish a virtuous cycle structure where demand creation in the performing arts sector leads to the creation of quality jobs."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.