[Culture &] Lee Mikyung, Vice Chair of CJ, “K-Culture Godmother” Chosen by Hollywood’s U.S. Media

'K-Culture', the Architect of Globalization, Spotlight on Vice Chair 'Lee Mikyung'

U.S. entertainment outlet 'The Hollywood Reporter' named Lee Mikyung, Vice Chair of the CJ Group, as the key figure behind K-culture’s global rise. The outlet said K-content’s success isn’t a matter of luck, but the outcome of decades of carefully engineered work—and at the center of it is this vice chair, nicknamed 'the Mother'.

Her strategy—from corporate meetings in Seoul to the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival—has been a driving force behind 'K-Culture' expanding in the United States. The most emblematic turning point is the 'DreamWorks' investment. By partnering with filmmakers such as director Steven Spielberg and investing about $300 million, securing equity stakes and Asian distribution rights, this decision became a launchpad for Korea’s modern film industry. This ecosystem enabled master filmmakers such as 'Bong Joon-ho' and 'Park Chan-wook' to break onto the global stage.

A bridge for the global culture industry: Brilliant achievements and an impressive track record

• Won the 2022 International Emmy 'Award for Outstanding Achievement'

• Received the 2023 'Order of Cultural Merit (Geumgwan)' from the Republic of Korea

• Won the 2024 'World Citizen Award' in the United States

Serving as a bridge between the East and the West for over 30 years, this vice chair is currently working as a director at the 'Academy Museum of Motion Pictures'. In addition, through the global label 'First Light Storyhouse', she is accelerating efforts to discover Asia-based content and creators.