Min Heejin Visits Chonnam National University: "Change Requires Resistance... Opposes Relocation of K-Arts to Gwangju"

Visit to the May 18 National Cemetery

Min Heejin, CEO of OK Records. Photo by Yonhap News

Min Heejin, CEO of OK Records, visited Chonnam National University in Gwangju on May 12 and shared her views on the spirit of May and cultural policy.

During a special lecture marking the 30th anniversary of the Chonnam National University 5·18 Institute and the 46th anniversary of the May 18 Democratization Movement, CEO Min stated, "Change comes from resistance," adding, "Even if resistance does not end in success, its significance lies in conveying a message to the world."

Regarding the May 18 Democratization Movement, CEO Min emphasized, "Historical facts should not be interpreted differently for political purposes," and stressed, "The public must not turn away from this history."

She cited the 'essence' of music as the reason for establishing an independent label. CEO Min said, "I started the label because I wanted to make music," and argued, "If the fundamentals are solid, it becomes an industry in itself, and those who focus on the essence can change the trend." She continued, "When the power of capital dominates the creative field, there needs to be a shield to protect artists."

Min Heejin, CEO of OK Records. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

She expressed clear opposition to the proposed relocation of Korea National University of Arts—a key local issue—to Gwangju. CEO Min stated, "For example, I oppose the policy of suddenly relocating K-Arts to Gwangju," explaining, "Artificial changes become obsolete in culture and are rejected by the public." She criticized the policy as unrealistic, pointing out, "Politicians and artists have fundamentally different ways of thinking."

Prior to the lecture, CEO Min visited and paid her respects at the May 18 National Cemetery.

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