Ministry to launch foundation for artists

A foundation for the welfare of artists will be launched on Monday, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said Sunday.

The organization, “Korea Welfare Foundation for Artists,” will work on the reinforcement of social welfare for artists, including support for the livelihood of less-privileged artists and their employment as well as the management of funds for artists. The establishment came after a relevant law guaranteeing stronger social welfare for artists came into effect on Sunday. The support law was based on the ministry’s 2009 survey of 2,000 artists in the country showing that 37.4 percent of them had no monthly income and 85.2 percent were unsatisfied with remuneration for their work.

The foundation will also help economically active artists buy insurance policies against industrial accidents, which are mandatory for salaried workers in other sectors, and help them draw up proper and fair contracts in business affairs. It will provide consulting services for endorsements, copyright, social insurance and other fields essential for artists to make a living.

A launching ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the foundation office in Daehagno, northern Seoul with Culture Minister Cheo Kwang-shik attending.

By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)