Renowned soprano Sumi Jo conferred distinguished French cultural award
Paris, France - May 26, 2025: Korean soprano Sumi Jo was honored with France's highest cultural distinction, the Commandeur of the Order of Arts and Letters, during an award ceremony at the Opera-Comique in Paris. The French Ministry of Culture presented the prestigious accolade to Jo, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the arts and her global promotion of French culture.
Sumi Jo, an internationally acclaimed soprano, made her operatic debut in 1986 at the Trieste Verdi Theatre in Italy and has since been celebrated for her exceptional vocal talent. She was awarded a Grammy and is often acclaimed as one of the world's top three sopranos, with her voice compared to a divine instrument.
In addition to her illustrious career, Jo is also dedicated to fostering the future of vocal talent. In 2024, she launched the "Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition" in France, marking a significant milestone for Korean cultural presence abroad. The biennial competition aims to identify and nurture promising young singers from around the world.
Moving forward, Jo has plans to commemorate the 40th anniversary of her debut and the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France with concert tours, solo performances, and events featuring winners from her international competition.
The honor bestowed upon Sumi Jo by the French Ministry of Culture represents the culmination of a career spanning decades, during which she has captivated audiences worldwide with her remarkable voice and dedication to the arts. Her continued contributions to music and the development of young talent assure her a prominent place in the annals of Korean and French cultural history.
Sumi Jo's "Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition" in France, launched in 2024, fosters the future of vocal talent globally, mirroring her dedication to promoting international arts and culture. As she commemorates her 40th operatic anniversary and France-Korea diplomatic relations' 140th year, Jo's plans involve concert tours, solo performances, and events showcasing winners from her competition, solidifying her impact on both Korean and French cultural landscapes. Additionally, the recognition she received as a Commandeur of the Order of Arts and Letters in France underscores her prominent position among celebrities in the realm of entertainment and arts.
