The Incheon Art Show 2024, held at Songdo Convensia from November 21 to 24, concluded with overwhelming success, attracting over 66,800 visitors and demonstrating strong engagement from art enthusiasts across South Korea. The event marked an impressive milestone for actress-turned-artist Ha Ji Won, whose nine exhibited pieces were completely sold out during the show.
According to the Incheon Art Show Organizing Committee, Ha Ji Won’s works were priced at approximately 20 million KRW each, highlighting her growing reputation in the contemporary art market. The committee noted that despite economic challenges, her vibrant and expressive works garnered significant attention from collectors, signaling the increasing crossover appeal between her acting and artistic careers.
The event showcased a wide spectrum of art, from emerging artists to established names, with the highest-priced piece sold being a painting by renowned artist Lee Ufan, fetching 3.5 billion KRW. Ceramicist Choi Young Wook’s moon jars also secured high sale prices, further demonstrating the event’s status as a marketplace for distinguished Korean art.
Interestingly, while high-value transactions were noted, the majority of sales centered around works priced between 1 and 2 million KRW. “The ongoing economic downturn appears to have influenced buyer preferences, with more attendees opting for pieces in the 100,000 to 200,000 KRW range,” commented a committee representative.
One of the most popular attractions of the show was the works of French landscape master Jean-Michel Delacroix. Visitors formed long lines, with waiting times reaching 30 minutes, to view his renowned pieces. This scene underscored the enduring appeal of European masters alongside Korea’s thriving contemporary art scene.
A total of 6,000 works were exhibited during the four-day event, representing a diverse array of mediums, themes, and price points. From traditional Korean art forms to modern experimental installations, the show underscored the vitality and diversity of the art market in South Korea.
Jung Kwang Hoon, chairman of the Incheon Art Show, expressed his gratitude for the widespread support: “Despite economic challenges, galleries, artists, and visitors from across the nation came together to make this event a resounding success. We deeply appreciate their passion and commitment to art.”
The Incheon Art Show 2024 not only reaffirmed the city’s growing reputation as a cultural hub but also demonstrated the resilience of the art market amidst challenging economic times. By blending international acclaim with local creativity, the event continues to set a benchmark for art fairs in South Korea.
Sayart / Nao Yim, yimnao@naver.com
