Cash-strapped artists recount struggles with red tape at forum in Seoul

by Yoo Na-hyun Posted : April 22, 2026, 18:25Updated : April 22, 2026, 18:57
Participants pose for a group photo during a forum titled “Artist Activity Certification Asked in the Language of the Field” at the fifth conference room of the National Assembly Members’ Office Building in Yeouido Seoul on April 22 AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Participants pose for a group photo at a forum at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on April 22, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
SEOUL, April 22 (AJP) - A forum to improve the rights of artists and entertainers alike was held at the National Assembly in Seoul on Wednesday.

At the forum hosted by lawmaker Son Sol of the minor far-left Progressive Party, participants discussed various measures to improve their legal rights, address workplace mistreatment, and strengthen support measures.

Many of them, hired on independent freelance-based contracts and struggling to make ends meet, are unable to access state-funded support as they are currently bound by regulations that require proof of employment, with red tape making it difficult for them to receive assistance.
A forum titled “Artist Activity Certification Asked in the Language of the Field” is underway at the fifth conference room of the National Assembly Members’ Office Building in Yeouido Seoul on April 22 AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Participants attend a forum at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on April 22, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Son Sol delivers opening remarks during a forum titled “Artist Activity Certification Asked in the Language of the Field” at the fifth conference room of the National Assembly Members’ Office Building in Yeouido Seoul on April 22 AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Lawmaker Son Sol of the minor far-left Progressive Party speaks at a forum at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on April 22, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
A forum titled “Artist Activity Certification Asked in the Language of the Field” is underway at the fifth conference room of the National Assembly Members’ Office Building in Yeouido Seoul on April 22 AJP Yoo Na-hyun
The slogan of a forum is displayed at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on April 22, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
A general view of the National Assembly of South Korea in Yeouido Seoul on April 22 AJP Yoo Na-hyun
The National Assembly's building is seen in Yeouido, Seoul, in this photo taken on April 22, 2026. AJP Yoo Na-hyun
Yoo Na-hyun Reporter
Yoo Na-hyun

Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.

Related