On June 4th, SM Entertainment chairman and founder, Lee Soo Man was awarded the 'Culture Award' at the 'The Korea Society's 55th Anniversary Celebration New York Gala Dinner'.

The event was held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City and Lee Soo Man was presented the award by The Korea Society for his influence in spreading K-Pop and Korean culture in the States through his background in 'Culture Technology'.

During his award speech, he stated, "With 'Culture First, Economy Next' as my catch phrase, my business plan has always been to advance cultural content and get it popular so that it will in turn influence the economy. This can be seen in the way that Korea's pop culture was advanced internationally. With its popularity came increased interest and attention in Korean brands and businesses, as well as their products. I will continue to work forward in the production of high quality content and artists so that we can continue to move out into the world."

Other figures of interest present at the event included AIG CEO Bob Benmosche, chairman of the Korea International Trade Association Han Duk Soo, and former prime minister Jung Woon Chan.

Members of allkpop were also in attendance at the prestigious event.



Source & Image(s): Sports Chosun via Naver