International

Stray Kids and Le Sserafim to Lead Star-Studded Launch of Korea’s Presidential Pop Culture Committee


South Korea will officially launch its Presidential Committee for Popular Culture Exchange on October 1, with performances by Stray Kids and Le Sserafim scheduled as part of the inaugural event.

The committee is co-chaired by Park Jin-young, founder of JYP Entertainment, and Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young. It is described as a new body aimed at supporting the international growth of Korean popular culture across sectors such as K-pop, dramas, films, and games.

According to media reports, approximately 270 citizens will be invited to attend the launch ceremony, which President Lee Jae-myung has referred to as being prepared like a festival. He has also stated that the committee will “firmly support the global leap and growth of our popular culture.”

The Presidential Committee for Popular Culture Exchange was announced in September 2025, and its official role includes facilitating collaboration between the government and the private sector within Korea’s cultural industries.

Stray Kids and Le Sserafim, two of the country’s leading K-pop acts, are expected to perform at the launch event, underscoring the government’s recognition of pop culture as a significant part of its international image and economic influence.

Music

Stray Kids Celebrate Billboard Milestone with $740,000 Pure Gold Gift from JYP Founder Park Jin-young


Stray Kids, one of the leading groups in K-pop, recently marked a significant milestone by securing their 7th consecutive No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 chart with their latest studio release, “Karma.” In recognition of this remarkable achievement, Park Jin-young, founder and producer of JYP Entertainment, presented the group with a lavish and symbolic gift — framed gold plaques containing 75 grams of pure gold for each of the eight members.

The heartfelt gift was unveiled on the group’s official account, accompanied by photos of the members smiling alongside Park Jin-young while proudly holding their gold plaques. One of the plaques is engraved with the words, “In commemoration of the 7th consecutive Billboard 200 No. 1 album, ‘Karma,’” marking the achievement with a lasting tribute. The total value of the gold plaques is estimated at over 100 million won, approximately $740,000.

This generous gesture highlights both Stray Kids’ growing global influence and Park Jin-young’s dedication to celebrating his artists’ milestones in meaningful ways. Beyond his role as a producer and founder of one of South Korea’s top entertainment companies, Park Jin-young has also been appointed as co-chairman of the Presidential Committee on Cultural Exchange, emphasizing his leadership in the cultural landscape.

Stray Kids continue to gain momentum as one of K-pop’s most successful and innovative acts, with “Karma” reinforcing their position on the international stage. This gold gift serves as a testament to their hard work, achievements, and the strong bond between the group and their producer.

Fans and industry observers alike recognize this celebration as a milestone not only for Stray Kids but for K-pop’s ongoing global expansion and impact.