KT&G Sangsang Madang is publicly recruiting participants for "Ji-eum," an independent publishing support program designed to discover and support emerging independent publishing authors.

"Ji-eum" is a program introduced this year by KT&G Sangsang Madang to maximize the originality of authors and contribute to the activation of the independent publishing ecosystem, even in an era where artificial intelligence (AI) creates literary works.

Applications are open until October 27, and anyone over the age of 18 with unpublished publishing content can participate. More details can be found on the Sangsang Madang Academy website (https://www.ssmdacademy.com).

The five selected prospective creators will receive up to 2 million KRW in publishing cost support after being evaluated by experts. They will also have the opportunity for mentoring with independent publishing specialists, including 'Iro,' the organizer of Korea’s largest independent publishing fair, 'Unlimited Edition.' Additionally, after the publication of the works, support for promoting the final published materials will be provided in collaboration with major independent bookstores in various regions.

Kim Kang-min, Head of Cultural Contribution Division at KT&G, stated, "‘Ji-eum’ is designed to support the publication of original creative works by independent publishing authors," and added, "We will continue to introduce various programs to energize the non-mainstream culture and arts sectors in Korea."

Meanwhile, KT&G Sangsang Madang supports the creative activities of emerging artists and offers extensive cultural experiences to the public. Since its inception at Sangsang Madang Hongdae in 2007, it has expanded to five locations including Nonsan, Chuncheon, Daechi, and Busan, contributing to the expansion of the cultural base and regional cultural development. Sangsang Madang attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually and hosts around 3,000 cultural and artistic programs each year.

(Photo Description) Recruitment poster for "Ji-eum"