Gov’t introduces cultural voucher for youths

The government will launch a new initiative aimed at enriching the cultural experiences of young people across the country. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said Wednesday it will issue the "youth cultural-arts pass," a program designed to empower all residents aged 19 with greater access to the realm of cultural arts, starting March 28. The program will provide them with a cultural voucher worth up to 150,000 won (US$112), to be used for cultural performances, including musicals, classical music and theater productions, as well as exhibitions. There are currently about 160,000 people born in 2005 across the country, according to the ministry. Eligible individuals can apply for the voucher on the websites and mobile apps of Interpark and Yes24 ticketing services. After age and residency verification, they will receive points redeemable for tickets. "The government hopes the 19-year-olds can experience various culture and arts and become active participants in the future culture-arts market," Yu In-chon, minister of culture, sports and tourism, said in a press release. Source: Yonhap News Agency