Culture minister pays respects to late singer and theater founder Kim Min-gi

Minister Yu In-chon of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Ministry walks into the funeral hall of the Seoul National University Hospital in central Seoul on Tuesday to pay respect to the late singer-songwriter and Hakchon founder Kim Min-gi.

Minister Yu In-chon of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Ministry walks into the funeral hall of the Seoul National University Hospital in central Seoul on Tuesday to pay his respects to the late singer-songwriter and Hakchon founder Kim Min-gi.

Yu said to Kim's surviving family members that he was "an artist who truly represented our era," and that "it is heartbreaking and regrettable that he passed away, as he could have done so much more for future generations."

"Even though Hakchon Theater, imbued with his spirit, has been renamed as Arko Kkumbat Theater, we will continue to honor his legacy. Through the Arts Council, we will ensure that Hakchon is well-maintained and that his vision is carried forward," Yu added.

Late singer-songwriter and Hakchon founder Kim Min-gi's funeral parlor is set up at the Seoul National University Hospital in central Seoul. [NEWS1]

Kim, known for his dedication to supporting young artists and love for theater, died on Monday. He was suffering from stomach cancer after being diagnosed last year. Kim was 73. [NEWS1]

BY YIM SEUNG-HYE [yim.seunghye@joongang.co.kr]