South Korean Soprano Sumi Jo to Receive France’s Highest Order of Arts and Letters

“Bravo! Madame Sumi!”

Inside the Opéra-Comique in Paris, under the applause of French dignitaries, South Korean soprano Sumi Jo (61), elegantly dressed in a hanbok, slowly stepped onto the stage. Awaiting her was the Commandeur rank—the highest grade of France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, awarded for significant contributions in the fields of arts and culture.

On May 26, Sumi Jo will officially receive the honor—a rare distinction for a Korean national. The medal is expected to be presented by Fleur Pellerin, former French Minister of Culture of Korean descent. Established in 1957, the Order is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in the arts or contributed to the promotion of French culture around the world.

🎖️ “Korean Vocal Art, Recognized Globally”

The French Ministry of Culture stated that “Sumi Jo is a representative vocalist who has illuminated French music and art on stages across the globe.” The Commandeur rank is the highest of the three grades of the order. Only two or three Koreans have received this honor so far, including conductor Myung-Whun Chung in 2011.

🎤 “Paris is Like a Second Home on Stage”

Since her operatic debut in 1986 as Gilda in Rigoletto in Trieste, Italy, Sumi Jo has graced the world’s most prestigious opera houses for nearly four decades. Among them, her connection with France has been particularly deep.

She has performed at Opéra Bastille, Théâtre du Châtelet, Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, and even Palais Garnier, a revered temple of classical music. “Performing in Paris always excites me. France respects music and honors its artists,” she said.

🌍 ‘Sumi Jo Competition’ Bridges the World

Last year, she launched the 1st Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition at Château de La Ferté-Imbault in the Loire region of France. The event attracted over 500 participants from 47 countries, once again affirming the global prestige of Korean vocal artistry.

“This award is not just a personal honor, but a milestone in Korea’s musical journey onto the world stage.”

🇫🇷 Crossing Borders Through Art

Lee Iryeol, Director of the Korean Cultural Center in France, remarked, “Sumi Jo’s decoration signals France’s formal recognition of the depth of Korean art,” adding, “This will mark a significant turning point in cultural exchanges between the two nations.”

Even after receiving the medal, Sumi Jo will remain in Paris, conducting a master class and a mini concert. Rather than resting on her laurels, she continues to sing, teach, and connect the world through music.

“Art transcends language. I want to keep embracing people through song.”