From September 4-7, Seoul gained even more attention from the art world through the Korea International Art Fair (Kiaf SEOUL) and Frieze Seoul. These concurrent events transformed the Korean capital into a global art hub, attracting galleries, artists, collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.

Kiaf SEOUL, in its 23rd year, joined forces with Frieze Seoul for the third consecutive year. Together, they created a powerful showcase of contemporary art, with Kiaf featuring works from galleries in 21 countries and Frieze drawing pieces from 30 nations. The COEX convention center in Seoul’s Gangnam-gu District hosted this impressive display of artistic talent and creativity.

A scene from Kiaf SEOUL 2024 (Courtesy of Kiaf)

These fairs have become crucial events in the international art calendar, serving as dynamic marketplaces where art is not only exhibited but also traded and discussed at the highest levels. Their combined influence has further elevated Korea’s standing and highlighted the country’s growing importance in the global art scene. 

Kiaf SEOUL has a rich history of promoting contemporary art in Korea and beyond. Frieze Seoul is a relative latecomer but has quickly established itself as a cutting-edge fair, attracting avant-garde artists and galleries. Their ongoing collaboration creates a unique synergy, blending Kiaf SEOUL’s deep local roots with Frieze’s global perspective and solidifying Seoul’s position as an emerging art capital where Eastern and Western artistic traditions meet and mingle.

Visitors at Frieze Seoul 2023 (Photo courtesy of Frieze and Lets Studio)

Complementing the fairs, numerous galleries across Seoul are hosting significant exhibitions to capitalize on the influx of art enthusiasts. Johyun Gallery will have a solo exhibition by “the charcoal artist” Lee Bae up until November 10. Lee gained international recognition, particularly after installing a monumental sculpture at New York’s Rockefeller Center and presenting a major solo exhibition at the Venice Biennale. Another highlight is an exhibition of works by Do Ho Suh at Art Sonje Center that runs until November 3. Suh, a leading figure in contemporary installation art, had garnered global attention with shows at prestigious institutions like London’s Tate Modern and New York’s Whitney Museum.

Until October 26, Pace Gallery will be presenting a compelling dual exhibition featuring works by American modernist Mark Rothko and Korean contemporary artist Lee Ufan. Titled “Correspondence: Lee Ufan and Mark Rothko,” this show is particularly significant as it showcases the curatorial collaboration between Lee and the Rothko Foundation. The exhibition explores the dialogue between Rothko’s iconic color field paintings and Lee’s minimalist, meditative works, offering a unique perspective on abstraction across cultures and time.

Kiaf SEOUL 2024 has expanded and is contributing more and more to the growth of the Korean art market. The images above are from Kiaf SEOUL 2024. (Photos courtesy of Kiaf)

These exhibitions underscore the vibrancy of the Korean art scene. Artists like Lee Bae, Do Ho Suh and Lee Ufan exemplify the broader trend of Korean contemporary artists making significant strides on the international stage. Their success reflects growing interest and investment in Korean art by major collectors and institutions eager to explore this dynamic market.

With the global art community converging on Seoul in early September, Kiaf and Frieze not only showcased the best of contemporary art but also affirmed Korea’s prominent place in the international art market. The fairs, along with the numerous gallery exhibitions throughout the city, highlight Seoul’s creative energy and cultural significance. The success of these events is cementing Korea’s role as a leader in the arts, providing a platform for Korean artists to continue making their mark on the global stage.