Design Miami, the world's premier collectible design fair, is making its highly anticipated debut in Asia with the launch of Design Miami.In Situ Seoul at Seoul's iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza this September. The groundbreaking event, running from September 1 to 14, marks the first major international collectible design fair in Seoul and represents a significant milestone in the global expansion of the renowned design platform.
The inaugural Asian edition is being organized in collaboration with the Seoul Design Foundation and will feature two main components: the exhibition "Illuminated: A Spotlight on Korean Design" and the Design Talks Program, which will be held in partnership with the Herald Design Forum 2025. This comprehensive approach aims to showcase the exceptional creativity of Korean craftsmanship while fostering cultural exchange between local and international design communities.
"At Design Miami, we are committed to presenting the best in collectible design, and Seoul is home to many celebrated and emerging designers who have been so integral to the evolution and expansion of this market," said Jen Roberts, CEO of Design Miami. "We look forward to igniting a cultural exchange between local and international design communities in this vibrant and multifaceted city."
The centerpiece exhibition "Illuminated: A Spotlight on Korean Design" will be curated by acclaimed design expert Cho Hye-young and will present more than 170 pieces of Korean design. The exhibition's concept draws inspiration from the Korean word "jomyeong," which means "to illuminate," reflecting the event's mission to highlight the brilliance of Korean design innovation and craftsmanship.
According to curator Cho Hye-young, the exhibition will spotlight trailblazing designers ranging from deeply rooted traditional craftsmen to those who have opened global doors for the next generation and pioneered design innovations. "This 'Design Miami.In Situ' exhibition comes at the perfect moment when Korean culture – spanning music, food, art, design and craft – is thriving as a global trendsetter," Cho explained.
Among the notable designers participating in the showcase is Jeong Da-hye, the winner of the 2022 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Inspired by traditional Korean millinery weaves, Jeong has developed a unique craft technique working with horsehair that she manipulates to create one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional objects. Her work "A Time of Sincerity" will be featured prominently in the exhibition.
Other distinguished artists participating include Choi Byung-hoon with his piece "Afterimage of beginning 018-499," Kim Kyoung-hee presenting "Door," and Kim Min-jae showcasing his "Ruffled Chair." These works represent the diverse spectrum of contemporary Korean design, from traditional craft techniques to cutting-edge modern aesthetics.
The Design Talks Program will complement the exhibition with themed discussions focusing on Korean designers in the global art market as well as exploring the role and purpose of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Scheduled for September 2, the program will be held in collaboration with the Herald Design Forum at the Lawn Room of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, accommodating 150 participants.
The Herald Design Forum, founded in 2011, has established itself as one of Asia's leading design forums, annually bringing together the world's most influential designers and architects. The collaboration with Design Miami represents a significant expansion of the forum's international reach and influence in the global design community.
The timing of Design Miami.In Situ Seoul is strategically aligned with other major art events in the city, as it coincides with Frieze Seoul and Kiaf Seoul, both of which kick off September 3 at Coex in Seoul. These two leading art fairs draw collectors and art experts from around the world every year, creating a concentrated period of cultural activity that positions Seoul as a major destination for international art and design enthusiasts.
Design Miami was originally founded in 2005, with its flagship Miami Beach fair taking place each December. The organization has been strategically expanding its global presence through localized event formats, including its Paris fair, which is hosted in locally specific architectural settings each October. The Seoul expansion represents the brand's first major venture into the Asian market, reflecting the growing importance of the region in the global design landscape.
