Seoul: The South Korean and French culture ministers met Friday to discuss strengthening cooperation in culture, arts, and related industries as the nations host a series of events marking the 140th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. During the meeting, Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young and French Culture Minister Catherine Pegard also vowed to closely cooperate on the anniversary celebrations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, French programming began March 7 in Bucheon, about 23 kilometers southwest of Seoul, with a concert by the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra. French principal conductor Adrien Perruchon led the performance, featuring rising French pianist Arielle Beck as a soloist. Additional cultural exchange events, including exhibitions, performances, and film events, are scheduled throughout the year in both countries.

The ministers, during the meeting, shared views on the growing influence of cultural heritage and contemporary creative content in lifestyle industries, including gastronomy, beauty, fashion, and tourism. Chae expressed hope that the two nations will share experiences and deepen communication to make cultural heritage and creative content key drivers of future growth. He cited the K-pop supergroup BTS and its globally livestreamed performance at Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square last month as an example of expanding economic impact.

Earlier Friday, with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and French President Emmanuel Macron in attendance, the countries exchanged letters amending the Korea-France Agreement on Cultural and Technological Cooperation. The amendment aims to boost collaboration in film, music, webtoons, e-sports, and publishing. The nations plan to use the revised agreement as a foundation to broaden cooperation across creative industries.