Lee Mi-kyung, Vice Chairwoman of CJ Group, is drawing renewed global attention as a key figure connecting Asian creators with Hollywood, reaffirming her leadership in the international cultural industry.
According to CJ Group and U.S. media reports on March 6, Amy Homma, Director of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, highlighted Lee in Los Angeles Magazine’s interview feature “Women Who Represent LA in 2026.”
Homma said Lee possesses “an exceptional ability to connect people and communities,” adding that her continued support for Korean cinema has helped expand the landscape of the entertainment industry.
The recognition aligns with recent evaluations from major international outlets. In January, Lee was the only Korean included in Forbes’ “50 Over 50” list for 2026.
Forbes cited her early investment in DreamWorks and her role as executive producer of the film “Parasite,” noting that she helped build the foundation for the global rise of Korean content.
Industry observers say Lee’s most notable achievement lies in building what many describe as a “global pipeline.” Since joining the board of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in 2019, she currently serves as Vice Chair and recently launched the global label First Light StoryHouse to support emerging Asian creators.
She also led a three-year partnership between CJ ENM and the museum, helping organize a special exhibition dedicated to director Bong Joon-ho. In July last year, a KCON-linked event held at the museum sold out completely, highlighting the growing presence of Asian intellectual property in the U.S. mainstream market.
An industry insider said the recognition shows that Lee is now regarded not only as a supporter but also as a key architect shaping the global film ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Lee further strengthened her international profile after being named one of Variety’s “120 Most Influential Executives” last year and receiving the 2025 Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
Copyright ⓒ 뉴스컬처 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지
