Singer Psy, Violinist Clara Jumi Kang and Cast of TV Show 'Non-Summit' Receive Awards From Corea Image Communication Institute
Singer-rapper Psy and members of the hit TV show "Non-Summit" were recognized by the Corea Image Communication Institute (CICI) awards for their valuable contribution toward the promotion of South Korea's culture.
"Gangnam Style" hit-maker Psy will be receiving the Stepping Stone Award for displaying the "vibrant, dynamic creativity" of hallyu and globally promoting Korean culture through his music, the Korea Herald reported Thursday.
The stars of the JTBC talk show "Non-Summit", namely Guillaume Patry, Alberto Mondi, Zhang Yuan and Tyler Rasch will be awarded the Stepping Stone Bridge Award for introducing South Korean culture to the world by presenting a unique perspective of the country through an interest debate.
Korea JoongAng Daily noted that through "Non-Summit" the hosts, although representing diverse ethnicities, talk about various topics relating to South Korean life and culture, and compare it to what it's like in their home countries.
The Flower Stone Award will be given to violinist Clara Jumi Kang for her representing classical Korean music on an international level.
The awards ceremony will take place on Jan. 12, 2016 at the InterContinental Seoul COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul. Kang will be performing a piece at the event.
Other dignitaries and officials are also expected to attend the event, including U.S. Ambassador Mark Lippert, French Ambassador Fabien Penone, Japanese Ambassador Koro Bessho, CJ Group chairman Son Kyung Sik and Samsung Electronics president Lee In Young.
Last year, Chinese actress Tang Wei received the Stepping Stone Bridge Award for promoting South Korean culture through her movies, Korea Times wrote.
Cosmetics Brand AmorePacific was last year's recipient of the Korea Image Stepping Stone Award, while Korean speed skater Shim Suk Hee was given the Budding Youth Award.
The Corea Image Communication Institute annually awards personalities, brands and organizations whose vital contributions in their particular fields helped promote South Korea overseas.