Eungie Joo, who had served as the head curator of contemporary art at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) since 2017, was dismissed on December 17 over claims related to workplace conduct. The news was initially reported by the San Francisco Standard.

A spokesperson for SFMOMA confirmed Joo’s termination, stating, “By institutional policy on workplace conduct, Eungie Joo was separated from SFMOMA on December 17.” The museum declined to comment further on the specifics of the personnel matter, and Joo has yet to make a public statement regarding her dismissal.

Joo’s tenure at SFMOMA marked a continuation of her prestigious career in curatorial practice. She was the first to hold the position of head curator of contemporary art at the institution, following significant roles in other major art platforms. At the New Museum in New York, Joo directed the Museum as a Hub initiative and curated the museum’s 2012 triennial. She also served as artistic director of the 5th Anyang Public Art Project in South Korea and curated the 12th Sharjah Biennial in 2015. Notably, she curated the Korean Pavilion at the 2009 Venice Biennale, solidifying her reputation as a visionary in contemporary art.

During her time at SFMOMA, Joo spearheaded several exhibitions and initiatives aimed at diversifying the museum’s collection and addressing themes of race, power, and justice. One of her notable projects, Fortuna and the Immortality Garden (Machine) by artist Kara Walker is an interactive installation that delves into the interplay of history and power. The installation is slated to remain on display at SFMOMA through Spring 2026.

Joo’s departure is the latest in a series of high-profile staffing changes at SFMOMA. Since 2020, the museum has experienced significant turnover, including the resignation of senior curator Gary Garrels and Neal Benezra, who had served as the museum’s director for 19 years. Christopher Bedford, formerly of the Baltimore Museum of Art, assumed the role of director in 2022.

While Joo’s contributions to SFMOMA were significant, her abrupt dismissal underscores ongoing challenges within the institution. The museum continues to navigate a period of transformation marked by a focus on accountability and the evolving role of major cultural institutions in addressing broader societal issues.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com