Art shows this week

Sungkok Arts & Cultural Foundation was established in 1995. In homage to Mr. Sung Gon Kim, the late founder of Ssangyong Corporation, it was named after Kim's nickname, Sungkok. The museum itself was built upon his former home. This non-profit organization continues Kim’s support for education, arts and culture reflecting his philosophy: "national progress begins with the cultivation of bright minds." Divided into two halls, the museum has hosted various local and international contemporary artists along with genre-specific exhibitions including photography, fashion, design and video. One of the things that make this museum more appealing is the surrounding gardens. Consisting of around 100 different types of trees, this small urban forest has a walking path with impressive sculptures created by acclaimed artists like Arman, Gu Bonju and Suh Donghun displayed along the way. Located near the palatial site of Gyeonghuigung, the surrounding area also offers a tasteful atmosphere.

A three-story brick building stands inconspicuously at the entrance to Wonseo-dong. Were it not for a banner hanging from the heavy black door, it would be quite difficult to tell that it was an art gallery at all. Featuring emerging artists and preparing exhibitions one year in advance, they date back to 2000 when they initially opened in Insadong. The basement level and the first two floors make up an exhibition space that showcases experimental art while the third floor is a workshop for students and artists. A little out of the way, even for an exceptionally diligent tourist, art lovers seek out the Insa Art Space for themes unexplored elsewhere.  

Hyundai card design library features 15,000 rare design books. The library’s exterior was constructed in a method similar to a traditional Korean house. The entrance was built with black bricks and the windows and crossbeams are covered in Korean paper, translating the beauty of traditional architecture into something modern.”