Neighborhoods
Three spaces that reveal the artistic soul of the city.
Leeum Museum of Art
Located in Hannam-dong, Leeum Museum of Art is one of Seoul’s leading museums, spanning Korean traditional art through contemporary art. From its collection of Korean antiquities designated as national treasures and treasures to works by internationally renowned contemporary artists, it offers an exceptional way to understand both the past and present of Korean art.
During Frieze Week, it is also one of the places most visited by collectors, curators and cultural-sector professionals in Seoul. Its buildings, designed by world-renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel and Rem Koolhaas, are as much a draw as the exhibitions, offering an experience of architecture and art together.
Ho-Am Museum of Art
Located in Yongin, Ho-Am Museum of Art is operated by the Samsung Cultural Foundation and offers a singular experience of Korean traditional art alongside nature. Its collection of Korean antiquities and beautiful Heewon Garden are among its greatest attractions.
Against a landscape that changes with the seasons, nature, architecture and art come together in harmony, offering a peaceful interlude that is hard to find in central Seoul. It is worth a visit if you would like to slow down for a moment amid the busy schedule of Frieze Week.
Good to know
Both Leeum Museum of Art and Ho-Am Museum of Art are operated by the Samsung Cultural Foundation. If this is your first visit to Seoul, experience Korean antiquities and contemporary art together at Leeum, and, if time allows, consider taking the shuttle bus to Ho-Am Museum of Art. It is one of the most balanced cultural itineraries for experiencing Korea’s past and present, as well as its traditions and natural landscape.
Ho-Am Museum of Art operates by advance reservation, and the Leeum–Ho-Am shuttle must also be booked separately after purchasing an exhibition ticket. Shuttle schedules may vary by exhibition, so it is best to check the official website for operating hours and availability before your visit.
SongEun Art and Cultural Foundation
Located in Cheongdam-dong, SongEun is one of the places where contemporary art in Seoul can be experienced at close range. It regularly presents exhibitions by Korean and international contemporary artists and serves as an important platform for Seoul’s art scene. Designed by architects Herzog & de Meuron, its building makes a distinctive impression amid the urban landscape of Cheongdam-dong.
During Frieze Week, it is one of the places frequented by collectors, curators and cultural professionals visiting Seoul. It is worth a visit for anyone hoping to discover the currents and new voices of Seoul’s contemporary art scene amid the atmosphere of an international art fair.
Good to know
While Leeum Museum of Art presents the past and present of Korean art, SongEun offers a chance to experience the currents of contemporary art currently attracting the most attention in Seoul. Its location in Cheongdam-dong makes it easy to explore galleries and brand flagship stores at the same time, and it is one of the cultural stops worth adding to a Frieze Week itinerary.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul (MMCA)
Located in Samcheong-dong, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul, offers a broad view of the development of Korean contemporary art. It regularly presents exhibitions by leading Korean and international artists and is one of Korea’s foremost public art institutions. Set between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon, the Seoul branch is distinctive not only for its exhibitions but also for the opportunity to experience Seoul’s historic landscape. The surrounding area, where traditional hanok houses and palaces sit alongside contemporary architecture, reflects the city’s singular character.
During Frieze Week, special exhibitions and a range of cultural programmes are also held, making it a regular destination for art professionals from Korea and abroad. It is worth a visit for anyone hoping to gain a broader understanding of the currents in Korean contemporary art.
Good to know
The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art presents the development of Korean contemporary art from a more public perspective. After your visit, consider exploring Samcheong-dong and Bukchon as well to experience Seoul’s history and culture.
