▲ South Korean director Park Chan-wook of "Decision to Leave" is seen in this photo provided by CJ ENM. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, May 31 (Yonhap) -- The Seorak-Manhae Ideals Practice Association Foundation announced the first recipients of the Musan Cultural Award, including Director Park Chan-wook, at an award ceremony held on the 31st. The ceremony and accompanying press conference took place at the Grand Hyatt Seoul in Yongsan-gu.

 

The Seorak-Manhae Ideals Practice Association, a cultural and artistic organization sponsored by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism's third district, established the Musan Cultural Award to honor the artistic spirit and harmony of the monk and poet Musan Jo Oh-hyun (1932–2018). Each recipient receives a prize of 100 million won.

 

The awardees for this inaugural event include Director Park Chan-wook in the arts category, Poet Moon Tae-jun in literature, and the Sisters of Jesus of Siloam in socio-cultural contributions.

 

The jury, composed of cultural figures including Poet Shin Dal-ja, praised Director Park for "greatly contributing to introducing Korean cinema to the world stage while profoundly exploring human nature and guilt through his films." In his acceptance speech, Park reflected, "Receiving an award named after a significant figure in Buddhism makes me reflect on whether I am a suitable person for this honor."

 

He added, "Although my films are often criticized for being violent and provocative, with considerable nudity, my intention has always been to pose moral questions to the audience. I am grateful that this aspect has been recognized."

 

Poet Moon Tae-jun recalled his connection with the late Poet Jo, saying, "I feel as if the monk (Poet Jo) visited me today without a word, but I understand what he would have said." Moon was recognized by the jury for expanding the realm of Korean lyrical poetry, deepening its spirit, and preserving its traditions.

 

Mother Superior Moon Seong-wol of the Sisters of Jesus of Siloam humbly stated, "This award is more than we deserve. I believe we are here because of the path paved by our founder, Brother Leo Kim Jun-ho." The jury commended the Sisters for their silent dedication to helping marginalized individuals, including tuberculosis patients, the elderly, and the homeless, since 1956. The organization was officially recognized by the Gwangju Catholic Archdiocese as a religious order in 1999.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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