Late Artist's Imaginative Depiction Blends Christianity with Traditional Korean Elements

Courtesy of Seoul Museum

A special year-end exhibition titled "The Life of Jesus" is currently on display at the Seoul Museum in Jongno District, featuring the reimagined biblical scenes by the late modern master Kim Ki-chang (1914-2001).

Born into a devout Christian family, Kim initiated his series in 1952 during the Korean War while taking refuge at his mother-in-law's house in Gunsan, North Jeolla Province. U.S. missionary Anders Kristian Jensen suggested the concept, leading Kim to depict 30 key moments of Christianity with a distinctive Korean touch, placing biblical scenes in the Joseon period (1392-1910) to resonate with the struggles of war-torn Korea. 

▲ Kim Ki-chang's "Nativity of Christ" from his 30-part "The Life of Jesus" series (1952-53) / Courtesy of Seoul Museum

The series took a year and a half to complete, showcasing a seamless blend of Christian imagery with traditional Korean elements in landscape, architecture, and attire. The exhibition portrays iconic moments, such as the birth and Last Supper of Jesus, with a unique Korean interpretation.

Highlights include the infant Jesus wrapped in a "jeogori" top with multicolored sleeves and the Three Wise Men in crimson robes reminiscent of Joseon-era ministers. Mary, depicted in a thatched-roof hovel, wears "sseugaechima," a noblewoman's veil-like headwear.

▲ Kim Ki-chang's "The Last Supper" from his "The Life of Jesus" series (1952-53) / Courtesy of Seoul MuseumIn "The Last Supper," Christ and his 12 apostles are portrayed as virtuous Confucian scholars, adorned in "gat" (men's hat made of horsehair and bamboo) and "dopo" robe, encircling a traditional banquet table.

Previously featured at the Deutsches Historisches Museum in Berlin in 2017 as part of "The Luther Effect" exhibition, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, Kim's series provides a unique perspective on the life of Jesus.

"The Life of Jesus" exhibition will run until Feb. 25, 2024, offering visitors an artistic blend of Christianity and traditional Korean culture at the Seoul Museum.

Sayart

Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com