Monthly Issue

Writer. Sung Ji Yeon
Photos courtesy of. Kiaf SEOUL

As September begins, Korea becomes immersed in art. Two major art fairs, “Korean International Art Fair” (Kiaf SEOUL) and “Frieze Seoul,” will bring together prominent figures from the world of contemporary art—artists, galleries and industry insiders alike. These events will showcase not only contemporary art but also feature talks with industry professionals and exhibitions connected to local areas, offering a comprehensive artistic experience.

From Sept. 4 to 8, the art fairs Kiaf SEOUL and Frieze Seoul will be held at COEX in Samseong-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul. While both fairs present their unique programs, they collaborate through shared initiatives such as a Talks Program and combined ticketing options.

Both fairs kick off with a VIP Preview Day on Sept. 4. Kiaf SEOUL will continue until Sept. 8, with 206 major galleries from 21 countries across four continents participating. Among them, 132 Korean galleries will be showcasing the strength of the Korean art scene to an enthusiastic audience.

Kiaf SEOUL’s exhibition space will feature various sections, such as the GALLERIES section filled with major contemporary art pieces, and the Grand Ballroom, which will display works by masters from both Korea and abroad. The SOLO section will highlight galleries presenting solo exhibitions of specific artists, while the PLUS section will focus on experimental emerging artists and galleries. Although paintings will dominate the space, visitors can also expect to see sculptures, installations and digital media.

The design of the Kiaf SEOUL exhibition space is inspired by the layout of a city street, yet segmented into distinct areas based on the characteristics of each section, giving visitors the sensation of exploring different neighborhoods.

Frieze Seoul, starting on the same day, will run until Sept. 7. This year, Frieze Live—a new addition to the event—will debut, featuring five performances by seven artists, emphasizing interaction with the “Poem.”

Additionally, from Sep. 2 to 6, Ewha Womans University will host “Frieze Film,” showcasing time-based artworks by more than 20 international artists. This year’s theme, “All that Weaves the Universe: A Question of Quantum Entanglements,” will explore the interconnectedness of humans and non-humans, drawing from historical weaving techniques and modern quantum physics. The program will also be available online through the Frieze website.

From Sept. 5 to 7, the two fairs, in collaboration with the Korea Arts Management Service (KAMS), will host a Talks Program. This will be a prime opportunity to hear from artists, curators, museum directors and collectors as they discuss key issues in the international art world.

Additionally, both fairs are involved in connected programs with other institutions. Kiaf SEOUL collaborates with major museums and public institutions across the country, linking with the Gwangju Biennale and Busan Biennale, which take place during the same period. Frieze Seoul is also partnering with non-profit art spaces in Seoul, Gwangju and Busan, offering visitors a deep cultural experience that combines Korean contemporary art with the charm of these regions.

The two fairs have also worked together to offer a single ticket that provides access to both events. Various ticket options are available, including preview tickets, general admission and student tickets. For ticket purchases and more details about the events, visit the official websites of Kiaf SEOUL at http://kiaf.org and Frieze Seoul at frieze.com/fairs/frieze-seoul.

Kiaf SEOUL 2024 / From Sept. 4 to 8