This study investigates the structural limitations faced by professional personnel in the cultural and arts sector in South Korea, where the demand for such professionals continues to grow due to increased public awareness of cultural value and the expansion of governmental cultural policies. In particular, the absence of clearly defined job roles and a standardized system for recognizing professional experience has hindered the development of occupational expertise and identity among cultural and arts professionals. As qualification systems serve to standardize job competencies, ensure expertise, and establish professional identity, this study aims to design a national qualification framework that enhances the job specificity and occupational identity of cultural and arts professionals. To this end, the research focuses on two existing qualification systems under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism－the Curator (Hakyesa) and the Arts Educator (Munhwa Yesul Gyoyuksa). Drawing upon relevant legislation and academic literature published between 2007 and 2025, the study analyzes the legal foundations, operational approach, curriculum structures, experience recognition systems, and certification processes of the two systems. Based on these analyses, the study proposes a qualification system composed of three key components: operating bodies, operational approach, and operational content. The proposed structure designates the Korea Arts and Culture Education Service as the implementing agency and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as the official certifying authority, thereby forming a dual-governance model. The operational approach adopts a competency-based assessment model incorporating a three-tier grading and promotion system that integrates education, career certification, and evaluation. The curriculum is divided into job artistry and artistic expertise, with elective course options specified by subject area, instructional method, and completion criteria. This study emphasizes the theoretical validity and structural coherence required for the implementation of a national qualification framework in the cultural and arts sector. Although prior empirical research on qualification systems in this field remains limited, the proposed framework serves as foundational data for the institutionalization of cultural and arts professionals’ competencies.
Ji Hyun Kim (Thu,) studied this question.