SEOUL, South Korea – Renowned South Korean soprano Sumi Jo was awarded France's highest cultural distinction, the Commandeur de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters), on May 29, 2025, a prestigious recognition of her profound contributions to the arts and her role in promoting French culture internationally. Jo, adorned with the distinctive green medal, shared her sentiments at a press conference held at The Plaza Hotel in Seoul on June 16, 2025.
"This medal is not only my honor but also the glory of the Republic of Korea. I came here today, wearing it with gratitude, to share this moment with all of you," Jo stated, her voice resonating with pride.
The Order of Arts and Letters is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and literature or who have helped to promote French culture globally. It is divided into three grades: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), and Commandeur (Commander), with Commandeur being the highest. Previous recipients of this esteemed award include a diverse array of international figures from the realms of music, film, literature, and visual arts, underscoring its global significance. Notably, Korean luminaries such as director Bong Joon-ho, actress Youn Yuh-jung, and maestro Chung Myung-whun have also been honored with various grades of this order, placing Jo among an elite group of cultural ambassadors.
A Journey Paved with National Pride
During the press conference for her upcoming opera concert, "The Magic: Sumi Jo & Winners," Jo candidly reflected on the challenges she faced at the beginning of her international career and how those experiences fueled her dedication to her homeland.
"When I started my career and began traveling overseas, I experienced a lot of difficulties with my Korean passport. I was constantly held up, needing to confirm whether I was from South or North Korea, and my flights were often delayed because of me," she recalled. "Going through such experiences made me realize how important it was for our country to prosper."
This deep-seated sense of national pride, she explained, became a powerful driving force. "I had a strong, unwavering spirit to work hard for our country. I believe that's what brought me this far," Jo emphasized, adding, "The path I've walked for 40 years was not mine alone."
Global Recognition and Future Endeavors
Jo expressed her disbelief and profound gratitude upon receiving the French honor. "Receiving a cultural medal from France is an immense feat, and I couldn't believe it," she said. "I am incredibly grateful and surprised, and I feel a strong commitment to do even better in the future."
She attributed the recognition to her extensive activities in France, which include the release of numerous opera aria albums, performances at prestigious French opera houses, and her collaborative work with UNESCO. Her commitment to cultural diplomacy is set to deepen as she prepares for the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France in 2026. "As a diplomatic envoy, I plan to work diligently," Jo affirmed, highlighting her intention to bridge cultures through her art.
Looking ahead, Sumi Jo is preparing to release a new album around spring 2026. The album is anticipated to feature beloved popular songs, including "If I Leave," the original soundtrack from the drama "Empress Myeongseong," and "Champions," the iconic cheering song for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which she famously performed. This upcoming release signifies her continued dedication to connecting with a wider audience while maintaining her classical roots, further solidifying her legacy as a versatile and influential artist.
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