Ballet Cancellation

[Anchor Lead]

A performance in China by the Korean National Ballet's prima ballerina Kim Ji-young has been canceled. China's retaliatory measures over Korea's decision to deploy the THAAD antimissile shield are expanding into the fine arts as well.

[Pkg]

Star ballerina Kim Ji-young of the Korean National Ballet was scheduled to appear as the lead dancer in the Shanghai Ballet's performance of“Swan Lake" this April. But it has been canceled. The Korean National Ballet has stated that her performance was first requested by China and that it's a shame it has been unilaterally canceled. This marks another case in a recent series of Chinese restrictions imposed in the fine arts field. Previously, pianist Paik Kun-woo and soprano Jo Su-mi also had shows canceled due to reasons such as rejected visa issuance. Diplomatic friction between Korea and China over Seoul's THAAD missile defense deployment has already adversely affected Korean celebrities and Korean TV drama showings in China. Now even Korean producers appear to be prevented from taking part in producing programs. China's State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television which manages the country's overall broadcast and cultural projects is believed to be orchestrating these measures.

[Soundbite] (Official, Chinese Production Agency) : "There was no official statement by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film & TV. However producers are wary of the atmosphere. They fear causing problems and so avoid anything related to the Korean Wave."

While such unjustified pressure continues from Beijing, Korean artists and producers can't even openly protest as they need to continue business relations with China.

[Soundbite] (Korean Producer in China (Voice Modified)) : "I heard there was a call from the Beijing government and there's nothing they can do. Rather than raising concern, I am bearing the current situation on the belief that conditions will ease one day."

This is why China is believed to be strategically targeting arts and culture because the impact is great while resistance is minimal.

[Soundbite] Kim Heon-sik(Cultural Critic) : "Restrictions in the arts draw public attention and are therefore very effective in achieving their aim. China is abusing Korea's weakness that it cannot but stay silent even under sanctions."

Experts point out that Korea must become more level-headed and respond strategically based on the competitiveness of its cultural contents.