ABSTRACT
The chapter focusses on emerging opportunities and challenges within civil society. This second phase of the politics of cultural economy starts with the culture-led urban regeneration of Gwangju and ends with the behind-the-scenes decision-making for the Hub City of Asian Cultural project. The project extended the cultural place-marketing of the Biennale into a long-term, culture-led urban regeneration project that meant the city’s budget and its opportunities increased. The new opportunities to participate in urban development had actors on both sides, especially those from the culture side, re-think their stance and adapt to facilitate the integration of culture and economy. That there were those who were willing to bend rather than rigidly commit to an argument sparked conflict with previously like-minded actors who did not change sides, which caused much conflict within civil society groups.
