ARTS COUNCIL KOREA 50TH Anniversary

History

Our
History

Arts Council Korea (ARKO) originated from the Korean Culture and Arts Foundation (KCAF), established in 1973 under the Culture and Arts Promotion Act. Launched to support the advancement of national culture and the arts, KCAF served as a key institution in implementing cultural policies and providing support for the arts.

In 2005, the organization was restructured as Arts Council Korea (ARKO), a consensus-based decision-making body composed of practicing artists, to strengthen the autonomy, independence, and expertise of arts support. This transformation has enhanced fairness and transparency in supporting artistic creation, and broadened public access to cultural experiences.

Learn More (KOR)
Milestones of ARKO
Marronnier Park in Daehakro (1970s)
Original ARKO Headquarters Established (1973)
The Korean Culture and Arts Foundation established (1973)
ARKO Art Center opened (1974)
Seminar on National Development and Arts & Culture (1977)
ARKO Arts Theater opened (1981)
Inaugural Arts Awards Ceremony (1982)
Conference of Local Cultural Development Councils Nationwide (1986)
Formation of ARKO Labor Union (1990)
1st National Dance Festival Held (1992)
(Left) Venice Biennale Participation / (Right) (1998)
Launch of the Artist of the Year Awards & Festival (2004)
Inauguration of the Arts Council Korea (ARKO) Nameplate (2005)
Declaration of ARKO’s Vision Statement (2006)
Artist House opened (2010)
1972

The Culture and Arts Promotion Act enacted

1973

The Korean Culture and Arts Foundation established

1974

ARKO Art Center opened

1979

ARKO Arts Archive opened

1981

ARKO Arts Theater opened

1992

ARKO HRD Center opened

1995

The Venice Biennale Korean Pavilion opened

2005

The Culture and Arts Promotion Act revised, and Arts Council Korea (ARKO) founded

2006

Joined the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) as a National Member

2009

DAEHAKRO Arts Theater opened

2010

Artist House opened

2011

Culture Nuri Card Program launched

2012

ARTISTREE launched

2014

ARKO Main Office relocated

2020

Appointed as Board Member of the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA)

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