Kim Dong-min, Bupyeong District Councillor, "We must establish a stage for the self-sustaining arts group that has dedicated 14 years"

Kim Dong-min, Bupyeong District Councillor (Democratic Party of Korea·Bupyeong 2, 5, 6-dong, Bugae 1-dong, Ilshin-dong), urged for the participation of local self-sustaining volunteer organisations in the 30th anniversary of the Bupyeong Pungmul Festival and called for institutional support for their independence.

During the administrative welfare committee's report on culture and tourism at the 274th extraordinary session held on the 29th, Councillor Kim began his inquiry by mentioning the 'International Youth Symphony Orchestra', which has been operating free of charge for underprivileged children for 14 years.

Councillor Kim stated, "I recently attended a performance by the orchestra and witnessed their high level of skill and the enthusiastic response from local residents," and pointed out, "It is regrettable that a self-sustaining organisation that has quietly served for such a long time remains outside the official support system of Bupyeong District."

In particular, Councillor Kim proposed practical support measures using the 'Bupyeong Pungmul Festival', which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. He said, "While budget support is important, the opportunity for artists to perform on stage is invaluable," and strongly requested, "Please involve these capable local organisations from the planning stage of the festival to create performance stages linked to the Pungmul Festival."

He further requested careful administrative support reflecting the voices from the field, such as vehicle support for performances, provision of bottled water and lunch boxes, and a comprehensive survey of local self-sustaining organisations that have been active for 5 to 10 years or more.

Additionally, Councillor Kim suggested measures to secure legal self-sufficiency for organisations to overcome financial difficulties. He emphasised, "Many organisations give up fundraising because they are unaware of the procedures," and stated, "It is necessary for the district and the cultural foundation to provide practical training within the legal framework to enable self-sufficiency, such as the registration of designated donation organisations and the issuance of donation receipts."

In response, the head of the Bupyeong District Culture and Tourism Department said, "We will review ways for local organisations to participate in consultation with the festival planning team," and the CEO of the Bupyeong Cultural Foundation also promised to provide guidance and review regarding procedures related to donations, including the designation of professional arts organisations.

Councillor Kim stated, "Rather than one-off projects, nurturing sustainable self-sustaining organisations is the way to strengthen the roots of Bupyeong's culture and arts," and requested, "Please conduct active reviews and provide quarterly reports."