Korea Year in France

[Anchor Lead]

An event marking the 130th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic times between Korea and France has come to an end. The "Korea Year in France," which started last September, drew more than 2 million people to its performances and exhibitions.

[Pkg]

On September 18th, 2015, "Korea Year in France" was launched to mark the 130th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Korea and France. All across France, 245 exhibitions, performances and cultural events took place as part of the celebration. During the past year, 2.26 million French and Europeans were able to access and appreciate Korean culture.

[Soundbite] Henri Loyrette(Korea-France Year Organizing Committee) : "It was unusual in that it took place for a year, from September 2015 to August 2016. The programs were high-class and diverse."

The Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism awarded plaques of appreciation to some 80 French artists who helped make "Korea Year in France" a big success. This grand affair didn't just end as a cultural event, but eventually energized the Korean tourism industry.

[Soundbite] Kim Jong-deok(Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism) : "One of the effects is an increase in tourists. The number of French tourists to Korea reportedly rose about 20% recently."

As a result of the success of the Korean-French celebration, the Korean and British culture ministers agreed to hold similar large-scale events to introduce the cultures of their own two countries.