▲ Hwang Sun Woo, Courtesy of HwangThe Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art has appointed Hwang Sun-woo as the inaugural Korea Foundation Curator of Korean Art and Culture. This historic appointment marks a significant step in the museum's commitment to Korean art, particularly as it begins its next 100 years.

Hwang Sun-woo, who was selected for the position in April, brings a wealth of experience to the role. She previously served as the Korea Foundation Global Challenger intern at the museum in 2018 and completed a five-year curatorial training fellowship there, which concluded in 2023. Her appointment was made possible by a matching gift from the Korea Foundation, aimed at promoting Korean art.

In her new role, Hwang will shape a major Korean art loan exhibition scheduled for 2025-2026, in collaboration with the National Museum of Korea. This exhibition will feature masterworks recently donated by the family of former Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee.

Hwang expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, “I thank the Korea Foundation for their generous support that has made this opportunity possible. It is an exciting moment to begin this new position as the museum starts its next 100 years with a clear commitment to Korean art and culture.”

The museum has also recently installed a special edition of the sculpture "Public Figures" by Korean artist Suh Do-ho in front of the Freer Gallery, with the support from the Korea Foundation. This installation, commissioned to celebrate the museum’s centennial, will be on view until April 2029.

Hwang’s appointment and these new initiatives underscore the Smithsonian’s dedication to expanding its focus on the art and culture of Korea, beginning in the second century.

Sayart / Chloe Kim, 2022chloe.k@gmil.com