Minister Choi Hyung's Congratulations to Park Chan-wook on Receiving France's Highest Cultural Honor

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hyung sent a congratulatory message to director Park Chan-wook, who received the highest grade of the French Order of Arts and Letters, the Commander.

The Ministry announced that Minister Choi sent the message on May 18, congratulating Park on receiving the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters.

“I sincerely congratulate you on receiving the prestigious French Order of Arts and Letters, Commander,” Choi said, adding, “This honor firmly establishes the global stature of the South Korean film industry and elevates our cultural pride.”

Choi continued, “Your unique body of work has become a source of inspiration for creators worldwide. I extend my deep admiration for your artistic achievements that have captivated the world and for your pioneering spirit that has opened new horizons in South Korean cinema.”

Mentioning the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France this year, Choi expressed hope that Park would serve as a bridge to further strengthen cultural ties between the two countries and pledged continued support for his remarkable journey.
Earlier, on May 17, French Culture Minister Rima Abdul Malak awarded Park the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in Cannes, France. This honor is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and literature or enhanced the international prestige of French culture. The order is divided into three grades: Chevalier, Officier, and Commander, with Commander being the highest.

Park has a long-standing relationship with France. He won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2004 for “Oldboy,” followed by the Jury Award for “Thirst” in 2009 and the Best Director Award for “Decision to Leave” in 2022. His film “The Handmaiden” was also invited to compete at Cannes in 2016, and he served as a jury member at the 70th Cannes Film Festival in 2017.

This year, he was appointed as the first South Korean president of the jury for the 79th Cannes Film Festival. After receiving accolades as a winner, jury member, and jury president, he has now been honored with the highest grade of the French Order of Arts and Letters.