Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has met with a group of creatives behind the smash-hit Netflix animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" and pledged to cultivate South Korea's cultural sector into one of the country's core industries. Appearing on Arirang TV's prerecorded program "K-Pop: The Next Chapter" aired Wednesday, Lee sat down with Maggie Kang, Korean-Canadian co-creator of the global animation phenomenon, alongside a panel of creatives, including TWICE members Jihyo and Jeongyeon, and DJ and music producer R.Tee, who were involved in the project, as well as music critic Kim Young-dae.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee emphasized the importance of showcasing Korean culture globally and stated, "The opportunity to show the power of Korean culture is beginning in a full-fledged manner. By building solid foundations, we will make (the cultural sector) a key industry." He acknowledged concerns about the superficial glamour of South Korea's cultural industry and the need for strong foundational support to prevent decay.

Lee also addressed the need for political neutrality in the cultural sector, highlighting past issues of blacklists targeting cultural organizations or artists critical of the government. "It is the government's duty to create a free environment," he stated, warning against surveillance and regulation that could harm the cultural sector.

The global success of "KPop Demon Hunters," produced by Sony Pictures Animation and distributed by Netflix, has sparked discussions about supporting Korean companies in developing original content and securing intellectual property rights. Lee mentioned the character Derpy the tiger from the film as a standout example, noting how it transformed an animal traditionally feared in Korea into a lovable figure.