(LEAD) Park visits exhibition of comic books

(ATTN: UPDATES with Park's quote)

SEOUL, May 27 (Yonhap) -- President Park Geun-hye on Wednesday visited an exhibition of comic books illustrated by a legendary South Korean cartoonist, a move that could give a boost to the country's comic industry.

"I hope that the related industry will greatly develop," Park said, noting comic books can be adapted into movies, television and animation. She made the comment after seeing copies of Huh Young-man's comic books displayed at an exhibition in southern Seoul on a monthly "culture day."

The government has designated the last Wednesday of every month as a monthly culture day to provide the public with easier access to cultural events and sites. Admission to palaces is free, and discounts are offered for movies, cultural performances and museums on a culture day.

Comic books have found their way onto the Internet in recent years as young artists upload their "webtoons," a term for comics posted and viewed online.

A total of 200 webtoons are currently available on the website of Naver, the nation's No. 1 portal operator.

Huh is one of South Korea's most popular cartoonists and some of his comics have been adapted into movies and television dramas, including the 2006 film "Tazza: The High Rollers."

South Korea views comic books and webcomics as a promising industry at a time when South Korean pop culture has gained wide popularity in China and Southeast Asian countries.

entropy@yna.co.kr
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