CJ Entertainment, an entertainment conglomerate based in South Korea, has announced the launch of First Light StoryHouse, a label that focuses on developing projects created by Asians or those of Asian descent. First Light StoryHouse aims to present their work to global audiences, say the group’s founding partners Miky Lee, Janet Yang, and Dominic Ng.
Lee is vice chairwoman of the CJ Group, Yang is a producer and former president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and Ng is chair and CEO of East West Bank. The First Light StoryHouse project will be managed by Jerry Kyoungboum Ko, who heads up EMN’s global film business.
The projects selected by First Light StoryHouse are designed to “strategically select and support the development of film and scripted TV projects led by talented Asian creators,” say its organizers. The creative works will span a variety of genres to achieve its aim of celebrating the richness of the Asian experience in the United States and around the globe, thus elevating perspectives that have been historically underrepresented.
First Light StoryHouse will focus on the development phase, investing early and participating as a co-producer on projects, and also form partnerships with studios, production companies and streaming platforms. As described by Miky Lee, “Recent successes from Asian storytellers have shown the potential and authenticity of their stories. Through this effort, we aim to spotlight these voices, believing in the power of storytelling to bridge cultures. Janet Yang and Dominic Ng have long championed this mission, and together, we are committed to empowering these stories on the global stage.”
Janet Yang added: “In Miky Lee and Dominic Ng, I’ve found kindred spirits — true champions for cross-cultural storytelling. Given CJ’s game-changing contributions to global culture and Dominic’s commitment to building cultural bridges, we’ve discussed our aligned interests over many conversations and have decided to create a venture together. I couldn’t be more privileged to partner with them on this endeavor.”
Speaking from a financial perspective, Dominic Ng declared: “At East West Bank and beyond, I’ve long strived to support artistic endeavors that are forces for good. I deeply admire leaders like Miky Lee and Janet Yang, who not only pursue their dreams but make the dreams of others come true. This joint effort behind First Light StoryHouse will serve as a powerful connector between the East and West, fostering deeper understanding and expanding opportunities for creative voices. I’m honored to help build this bridge alongside CJ ENM.”
Check out other articles by Edward.