Korean entertainment conglomerate CJ ENM has launched a new label, First Light StoryHouse, which will focus on developing projects by creators who are Asian or of Asian descent, for a global audience.
The label’s founding partners are CJ Group vice-chairwoman Miky Lee; Janet Yang, producer and ex-president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences; and Dominic Ng, chairman and CEO of East West Bank.
First Light StoryHouse will be managed by CJ ENM under Jerry Kyoungboum Ko, head of CJ ENM’s global film business.
CJ ENM has backed critically-acclaimed films like Park Chan-wook’s Decision to Leave, Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite and Celine Song’s Past Lives, among others. The company also produces series through its Studio Dragon and CJ ENM Studios arms.
First Light StoryHouse will “strategically select and support the development of film and scripted TV projects led by talented Asian creators.”
Projects will span a variety of genres and aim to celebrate the “richness of Asian experiences in the United States and around the world,” elevating historically underrepresented perspectives in both Hollywood and the international entertainment industry.
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.
“Recent successes from Asian storytellers have shown the potential and authenticity of their stories,” said Lee. “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.”
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.”
Ng said: “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.”
