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68th Busan Metropolitan City Cultural Awards Winners Announced

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Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced that six individuals who have devoted themselves to the development of Busan’s culture in their respective fields have been selected as winners of the 68th Busan Metropolitan City Cultural Awards.

The city received recommendations for 21 candidates across nine categories from cultural and artistic institutions, organizations, and groups of citizens (with 20 or more signatories). The final selection was made last month following the deliberation of the Cultural Cooperation Committee.

A total of six individuals were chosen in six categories:
Natural Science – Professor Jeong Hae-young, College of Pharmacy, Busan National University;
Literature – Novelist Kang Dong-soo;
Performing Arts – Emeritus Professor Ko Jeong-hwa, Busan National University of Education;
Visual Arts – Former Professor Kim Soo-gil, Silla University;
Traditional Arts – Park Ji-young, President of the Dongnae Jisinbalggi Preservation Society;
Spatial Arts – Professor Yoo Jae-woo, Department of Architecture, Busan National University.

In the Natural Science category, Professor Jeong Hae-young has published more than 580 academic papers in the fields of pharmacy and aging science, demonstrating significant influence and contributions in his discipline. Through his research, industrialization efforts, and participation in various committees, he has played a major role in advancing the senior-friendly industry and regional scientific and technological development.

In the Literature category, novelist Kang Dong-soo debuted in 1994 after winning the Segye Ilbo New Year’s Literary Contest. He has since published multiple short story collections and essay books and has been recognized for his contributions to regional culture and the arts, including winning numerous literary awards such as the Yosan Literary Award.

In the Performing Arts category, Emeritus Professor Ko Jeong-hwa has presented over 100 cultural performances and piano recitals, published academic materials, and produced recordings. Her efforts have expanded the base of classical music and citizens’ cultural enjoyment. Through her leadership roles in various art organizations and policy committees, she has made notable contributions to Busan’s performing arts scene.

In the Visual Arts category, Former Professor Kim Soo-gil served as Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Silla University and received the Minister of Education and Human Resources Award on Teachers’ Day. Through numerous solo and group exhibitions, participation in international biennales, and founding exhibitions such as the Busan Korean Painting Exhibition and Three Colors Exhibition, he has significantly contributed to the preservation and development of traditional Korean painting and Busan’s art culture.

In the Traditional Arts category, Park Ji-young, President of the Dongnae Jisinbalggi Preservation Society, has dedicated herself to transmitting the traditional local heritage of Dongnae Jisinbalggi and Dongnae Crane Dance to future generations. She has developed diverse educational programs to help citizens engage with cultural heritage and contributed to the preservation and revitalization of Busan’s traditional arts.

In the Spatial Arts category, Professor Yoo Jae-woo, Department of Architecture at Busan National University, has served as Executive Director of the Busan International Architecture Festival and as Chair of the Busan–Ulsan–Gyeongnam Chapter of the Architectural Institute of Korea. Through exhibitions and forums for citizens, he has expanded the base of architectural culture in the region. In addition, as Director of the Urban Regeneration Center, he has promoted urban ecology and architectural education, fostering future talent and contributing to the revitalization of Busan’s architectural culture.

The 68th Busan Metropolitan City Cultural Awards ceremony will take place today (October 30) at 4 p.m. in the outdoor garden of Domoheon, surrounded by the serene atmosphere of autumn, with around 100 attendees including winners, families, and friends.

This is the first time the Cultural Awards ceremony is being held at Domoheon, a multipurpose cultural space, and the event will include a celebratory performance by the Busan Municipal Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Since its inception in 1957, the Busan Metropolitan City Cultural Awards have been held 67 times, recognizing a total of 420 winners, and are regarded as the city’s most prestigious honor in the cultural field. Past recipients have enriched citizens’ lives and strengthened the foundation of local culture through their diverse artistic activities.

Mayor Park Heong-joon stated, “To truly become a global hub city, Busan must be grounded in a unique and abundant culture. Culture forms a city’s identity, connects its members, and expresses its distinct charm. We will continue to foster a sustainable and original cultural identity for Busan, raise the city’s cultural stature, and actively recognize individuals who have contributed to regional cultural development. Through the Busan Cultural Awards, we will honor their achievements and share their value with the citizens.”