The Korea Image Communication Institute (CICI) announced on the 11th that it has selected national fencing representative Oh SangWook, Korean-American chef Edward Lee, and national table tennis representative Shin YuBin as the recipients of the 2025 ‘Korea Image Award’. This announcement coincided with a special homage to Korean literature translators, following author Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature win.
Fencer Oh SangWook will receive the ‘Stepping Stone Award’ for his achievements in winning the team event and men’s individual saber event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, thereby elevating the status of Korean fencing on the global stage. His contributions are highly regarded for promoting Korea’s image worldwide.
Additionally, Edward Lee, who gained recognition as the runner-up on the Netflix cooking survival program ‘Black and White Chef’, will be awarded the ‘Bridge Award’. He has played a bridging role in spreading Korean philosophy and culture worldwide through his creative Korean cuisine using local ingredients.
The ‘Flower Stone Award’ will be presented to table tennis player Shin YuBin, who won two bronze medals in the mixed doubles and women’s team events at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She has further enhanced Korea’s image on the global stage.
In celebration of Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature, a special homage will be given to Korean literature translators via video. These translators are recognized as unsung contributors who convey the depth of Korean literature to the global literary community.
The Korea Image Communication Institute annually awards individuals, objects, and organizations that contribute to promoting Korea’s image worldwide. The 2025 awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 15th at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas in Gangnam, Seoul. The continued efforts of various pioneers promoting Korea’s image globally are eagerly anticipated.
