Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Korean 'character' shops open
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in partnership with the Korea Creative Contents Agency (KOCCA) jointly opened shops selling products that feature popular Korean fictional characters in downtown Seoul Friday.
The latest additions bring to six the total number of such shops currently in operation. It is part of a move that launched in 2010 to nurture Korean characters and expand their customer bases.
“Cuvid” in Gwanghwamun, central Seoul, will sell popular local items such as Pororo, Robocar Poli, Cloud Bread, Larva, Canimal as well as a band of other up-and-rising characters.
“Toc” near Bukchon Hanok village, central Seoul, will focus on fashion items.
“These shops specializing in selling products that only feature domestic-characters can contribute to raising character awareness and thus help them grow into globally popular characters,” said Kim Kwang-yong, CEO of Tuba Entertainment, the company behind Larva.