Seungman Seo’s Bold Promise: Transforming National Jeongdong Theater Amid Criticism
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[Herald Economy — Reporter Min Seong-gi] Seung-man Seo, a former comedian and the newly appointed CEO of the National Jeongdong Theater, pushed back against accusations that his appointment was a political reward, saying, “I will prove it with results and answer with achievements. Please watch.”
Seo wrote on his Facebook page on April 12, “In the two days since I took office, I’ve seen about 100 articles. Some offered sharp criticism of me personally, but it also made me realize how strong public interest in the National Jeongdong Theater is.”
He added, “Some people are trying to define who I am today by piecing together fragments from the past. Some are using a brief, ill-considered post to dismiss the time I’ve spent and the expertise I’ve built. I will not be swayed. While biased perspectives chase controversy, I will focus on producing the high-quality content the public deserves.”
Seo said, “Criticism is short; art endures,” and reiterated, “I will prove it with results and answer with achievements.”
On April 10, Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choi Hwi-young appointed Seo as CEO of the National Jeongdong Theater and presented him with his appointment letter. His term will last three years. According to the ministry, Seo is a performing-arts and content planner who has worked in broadcasting, stage directing, and theater management. He has served as head of the troupe Sangsang Nanum, director of the small venue Sangsang Nanum Theater, and president of the National Safety Culture Association. He has also directed yard plays such as “Ondal and Pyeonggang” and “Bbaengpajeon,” the musical “Nono Story,” and “Tunnel.”
Seo publicly endorsed Lee Jae-myung in 2022 and has since worked as a pro-Lee YouTuber, prompting some to view his appointment as a patronage hire. He ran as a candidate for the Democratic Party’s satellite proportional party, the Democratic Union, in the 2024 general election but did not win a seat. {vi13}
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