In the second half of 2023, the Korean art scene is expected to become vibrant with various events. Notably, the country’s most significant art market will return to COEX. Frieze Seoul and Kiaf SEOUL, which created a buzz in the art scene when they were first held last year, will open their second joint art fair this year, starting on September 6 through September 10.
However, it is not just the art market that is bustling. While the Gwangju Biennale and Busan Biennale are among the most renowned events representing Korea, there are numerous distinctive biennales that focus intensively on various mediums and themes.
In the latter half of this year, the Gwangju Design Biennale will focus on design and discuss the value and future of design.
Exhibition view of the 9th Gwangju Design Biennale. ⓒ GWANGJU DESIGN BIENNALE.Another one of Gwangju’s biennials is the Gwangju Design Biennale. While the Gwangju Biennale, which focuses on contemporary art, may seem a bit intimidating to those unfamiliar with art, the Gwangju Design Biennale might feel more accessible due to its emphasis on design.
Starting in 2005, the Gwangju Design Biennale was initially hosted by the Gwangju Biennale Foundation until 2013. From its 6th edition in 2015 onward, it has been organized by the Gwangju Institute of Design Promotion (GIDP). The Gwangju Design Biennale serves as a platform for discussing the value and future of design.
The title of this year’s exhibition is Meet Design, which is directed by Professor Ken Nah of the Department of Industrial Design at Hongik University. The exhibition is divided into sections focusing on Technology, Lifestyle, Culture, and Business, showcased at the Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall as well as various locations throughout the city.
Among the four sections, the Technology section explores the theme of “design-led warm and flexible technological implementation,” introducing concepts such as the Internet of Things (IoT), wearable robots, and future mobility. Additionally, award-winning designs from the Red Dot Design Award are exhibited. The Lifestyle section highlights design in everyday life; the Culture section presents the intersection of culture and design, including K-Culture and K-Design; and the Business section showcases innovative designs from global corporations.
