South Korean Culture Minister Resigns Amid Blacklist Scandal
On January 21, 2017, Cho Yoon-sun, the culture minister of South Korea, stepped down following her arrest linked to allegations of creating a blacklist that targeted nearly 10,000 artists who were critical of the impeached president Park Geun-hye. The Seoul Central District Court authorized an arrest warrant citing abuse of power and perjury. This list, reportedly designed to obstruct government funding and opportunities while monitoring individuals, encompasses various fields such as film, theatre, music, fine arts, and literature. Among those affected are notable individuals like Han Kang, the 2016 Man Booker International Prize-winning novelist, and acclaimed director Park Chan-wook, recognized for Oldboy. The incident underscores the political meddling in cultural funding and artistic freedom in South Korea.
Key facts
- Cho Yoon-sun resigned as South Korea's culture minister
- She was arrested on January 21, 2017
- The arrest warrant was issued by Seoul Central District Court
- Charges include abuse of authority and perjury
- A blacklist of nearly 10,000 artists was allegedly compiled
- The list targeted critics of impeached president Park Geun-hye
- It aimed to exclude artists from government subsidies and surveillance
- Notable artists include Han Kang and Park Chan-wook
Entities
Artists
- Cho Yoon-sun
- Han Kang
- Park Chan-wook
- Park Geun-hye
- Park Chung-hee
Institutions
- Seoul Central District Court
- Man Booker International Prize
- Channel News Asia
Locations
- Seoul
- South Korea