On October 21, 2024, the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority (IFEZA), led by Commissioner Dr. Yoon Won-sok, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Glendale, California, represented by Mayor Elen Asatryan. This agreement, formalized at the Art Center Incheon, aims to foster economic growth through collaboration in the entertainment industry. It establishes a government-to-government (G-to-G) cooperation platform to promote both cities as global hubs for cultural content [4bb8ffa7].
The signing of the MOU was celebrated with the inaugural 'Hollywood and Asia Entertainment Forum,' which attracted notable figures from the entertainment sector, including film producer Patrick Choi and author Kim San. During the event, Commissioner Yoon expressed ambitions for a regular Hollywood Asia Forum and the potential development of a 'Hollywood Asia Theme Park' [4bb8ffa7].
Lee Chang-yeop, a key figure in the discussions, emphasized the significance of the Asian market for Hollywood and K-entertainment, highlighting the mutual benefits of this partnership. Glendale, known for its proximity to major entertainment companies like DreamWorks Animation, presents a strategic opportunity for collaboration with Incheon, which has maintained a sister city relationship with Burbank, California, since 1961 [4bb8ffa7].
This MOU signifies a broader trend of international cooperation in the entertainment sector, as cities seek to leverage their unique cultural assets to attract investment and promote economic development. The partnership is expected to enhance the visibility of both cities in the global entertainment landscape [4bb8ffa7].