CJ ENM launched First Light StoryHouse, a new brand for Asian stories

Korean powerhouse CJ ENM has launched First Light StoryHouse - a label created under its new Asian Content Initiative, designed to amplify Asian voices worldwide. First Light StoryHouse will focus on identifying and supporting authentic Asian and Asian American stories and introducing them to global audiences.

The vision for this effort was conceived and set into motion by Miky Lee, Vice Chairwoman at CJ; Janet Yang, producer and recent President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences; and Dominic Ng, Chairman and CEO of East West Bank. Lee, Yang, and Ng will jointly oversee the endeavor as founding partners. 

"Recent successes from Asian storytellers have shown the potential and authenticity of their stories,” said Miky 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."

First Light StoryHouse will strategically select and support the development of film and scripted TV projects led by talented Asian creators. These projects will span a variety of genres, themes and cultural perspectives, celebrating the richness of Asian experiences in the United States and around the world.

Janet Yang shared, “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.”

The label will focus on the development phase, investing early and participating as a co-producer to help bring compelling, market-ready projects to life. Upon completion of the development process, the label will work to secure partnerships with studios, production companies and streaming.

“At East West Bank and beyond, I’ve long strived to support artistic endeavors that are forces for good,” said Ng. “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.”