Art and cultural heritage has always been ingrained in South Korean society from building structures, Seoul housing, and music. With the nation’s rich history and traditions, it’s understandable why most Koreans have a thirst for creativity and innovation. Korean pop culture is also rapidly becoming more globally influential in recent years. The Korean music and film industry is penetrating the international market by storm and fans from all over the world can’t seem to get enough.
For many young Koreans, the field of arts and design has somehow inspired their everyday lives from aesthetically pleasing backdrops to modern fashion choices. With a country so keen on keeping its creative flair, browsing through exhibitions has become a casual leisure experience. Today, plenty of exhibits, modern or traditional, can be found in the city of Seoul.
In this article, Ziptoss has provided a list of ongoing exhibitions you can visit. We’re also going to provide you with the dates of availability as well as a description for each exhibit. This can help you properly select the ones that might pique your interest should you wish to travel to Seoul.
1. Maya: Sacred City- Tak’alik Ab’a
Exhibition Date: Nov 09, 2021 to Feb 06, 2022
Price: Free
Operating Hours: 09:00 to 18:00 (Tuesdays to Sundays)
Hosted by the Seoul History Museum, “Maya: Sacred City- Tak’alik Ab’a” is an exhibit that celebrates the 60 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and Guatemala. It showcases 30 of the finest photos taken from Tak’alik Ab’aj which is a Mayan cultural site that depicts the transition between Olmec and Mayan civilizations. It also features educational videos as well as colorful traditional clothing from the Mayan culture.
2. Seoul as Envisioned by a Scholar of Urban Design
Exhibition Date: Oct 29, 2021 to Mar 06, 2022
Price: Free
Operating Hours: 09:00 to 18:00 (Tuesdays to Sundays)
If you’re someone interested in urban planning and design then this exhibition might be what you’re looking for. Located at the Seoul History Museum, “Seoul, as Envisioned by a Scholar of Urban Design” centers around the concepts of Professor Kahng Byong Kee, the man who is considered to have laid the foundation for the field of urban planning and design in Korea. The exhibition features his many accolades and achievements as well as his visionary role in the field.
3. Fashion and Seoul 1945-2020
Exhibition Date: Nov 19, 2021 to Mar 27, 2022
Price: Free
Operating Hours: 09:00 to 18:00 (Tuesday to Sunday)
For those who consider fashion as their passion, you may want to pay a visit to Seoul Urban Life Museum to see “ Fashion and Seoul 1945-2020”. From the name itself, the exhibit focuses on the rich fashion history of South Korea. It’s also a creative take on how lifestyles and traditions have evolved from the post-liberation era to present-day Korea.
4. The Art of Banksy
Exhibition Date: Aug 20, 2021 to Feb 06, 2022
Price: 20,000 won (Naver Booking and Interpark Ticket)
Operating Hours: 11:00 to 20:00 (Mondays to Wednesdays) 11:00 to 22:00 (Thursday to Saturday and Holidays)
Located at The Seouliteum in Seongdong District, “The Art of Banksy” is a collection of works from the famous England-based artist. Known for his subversive and politically powerful street art, Banksy has managed to successfully draw people’s attention since the 90s. The exhibition celebrates his genius and ability to portray social issues through art with over 150 original Banksy pieces.
5. Photographs by Yosigo: Holiday Memories
Exhibition Date: Jun 23, 2021 to Dec 05, 2021
Price: 15,000 won- Adults 12,000 won- Youth
Operating Hours: 10:00 – 19:00 (Open daily except for the first Monday of every month)
After the pandemic hit, plenty of us felt alone and isolated which is why this exhibit is quite a refreshing feast for the eyes. “Photographs by Yosigo: Holiday Memories” showcases the works of Spanish photographer, Yosigo. The exhibition features 350 photographs of beaches and holiday destinations found in different parts of the world. It can be found in Ground Seesaw Seochon and presents aesthetically pleasing views that would surely quench your thirst for travel and adventure.