Seo Eun-hye, an accomplished artist with Down syndrome, expressed her deep sorrow during a recent video update as budget cuts threaten her fellow artists' livelihoods. The emotional moment was captured in a Shorts video shared on her YouTube channel on the 23rd.
Impact of Budget Cuts
In the video titled "Ms. Eun-hye’s tears: 'At the thought of 30 fellow artists being laid off...,'" Seo Eun-hye shared the distressing news that the allocated budget for Gyeonggi Province’s rights-based public jobs program for 2027 has been axed from 12.7 billion won to zero. This devastating change places approximately 30 artists, including herself, in jeopardy of losing their positions.
Seo's Heartfelt Reaction
Overcome with emotion, Seo Eun-hye struggled to articulate her feelings while reflecting on her colleagues. "I borrowed money of my own for the 50 million won in prize money. There was no money, so I put it toward the workplace like this," she said, her voice cracking with emotion. "We were all doing art work at our jobs and getting paid, but now we can’t do that anymore. My older brother is also drawing..."
Even through her tears, she emphasized her need for community, stating, "I can’t do without my colleagues. I feel suffocated without the artists. I’ve never said I would quit, either. I still have to keep going." Her determination highlights her commitment not only to her work but also to her fellow artists, who are facing uncertain futures.
A Beloved Figure
Seo Eun-hye is known for her role as Han Ji-min’s twin older sister in the popular tvN series “Our Blues.” She has captured the hearts of many and has become an inspirational figure within the artistic community. Additionally, her personal life found joy when she married Cho Young-nam last May, whom she met through a public jobs initiative designed for individuals with developmental disabilities.
As the situation evolves, support for Seo Eun-hye and her colleagues is increasingly vital. Their collective effort in the arts not only enriches their lives but also adds value to the community at large. It is crucial to advocate for the reinstatement of funding to ensure these talented individuals can continue their passionate work.
Seo Eun-hye’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges many artists face, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. The emotional toll of financial instability cannot be overstated, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems for artists to thrive.