OWL Magazine Korea

Gallery Hyundai: A Free Exhibition Space in Samcheong-dong, Seoul

Gallery Hyundai is a gallery located on a street east of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is a freely accessible gallery, welcoming visitors during its operating hours to appreciate the exhibited artworks.

“Since 1970, Opened as ‘Hyundai Hwarang’ and Later Renamed Gallery Hyundai”

In April 4, 1970, at 10 AM, Gallery Hyundai, initially known as Hyundai Hwarang, took its first step in Insa-dong. Over the past 50 years, the founder, Myungja Park, has organized numerous exhibitions for various artists, igniting creative spirits. Gallery Hyundai has served as a bridge connecting artists and art enthusiasts, and strived to ensure that significant works find a meaningful place for preservation. Efforts were made to gradually bridge the gap between modern and contemporary Korean art.

Within the remarkable era of Korea’s industrialization and democratization, Gallery Hyundai has experienced cultural ascendancy and societal progress through exhibitions showcasing historical works and significant new creations, along with domestic and international art transactions. In the midst of dynamic and tumultuous times, our gallery has embraced a greater mission and responsibility beyond that of a commercial gallery. Undoubtedly, there have been challenges and moments where expectations were not met. Nevertheless, Gallery Hyundai’s unique relationship with the Korean art scene stands out, even internationally. We are committed to addressing any shortcomings and contributing to finding a breakthrough towards a new tomorrow. Reflecting on the significance of our cultural existence, we aim to rejuvenate into a form befitting the future. (Excerpt)

“A Small Yet Modern Gallery – Gallery Hyundai”

Gallery Hyundai is not on the scale of large galleries like the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. However, it can be described as a gallery that has everything it needs. It allocates a total of three floors, including the basement, 1st floor, and 2nd floor, for exhibitions.

Upon entering through the main entrance, you’ll find yourself on the 1st floor, where you can obtain information about the ongoing exhibitions. You can explore the exhibits on the 1st floor, then continue to the 2nd floor or go down to the basement to further enjoy the gallery. Visitors have the option to start from the 2nd floor and work their way down, experiencing the gallery floor by floor.

“Kang Ik-Jung: The Moon is Rising”

On the day of our visit, an exhibition titled “The Moon is Rising” by artist Kang Ik-Jung was underway.

Kang Ik-Jung’s works encapsulate a message of hope for a harmonious future by bringing together different cultures, languages, and environments. In Kang Ik-Jung’s artistic world, everything in the world’s contrasting relationships converges to form a small universe. His works reveal the beauty of ‘coexistence’ as images and objects from diverse languages and pure worlds complement each other.

Through the website, you can purchase publications related to past exhibitions, as well as access information about past exhibitions and the artists. Gallery Hyundai, hosting various exhibitions for over 50 years, offers a culturally enriching experience and holds significant importance as a place for cultural activities.

“Seoul’s Bukchon Hanok Village – Gallery Hyundai”

  • Address: 14 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Phone: 02-2287-3500
  • Operating Hours: (Tue-Sun) 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Closed on Mondays
  • Website: https://www.galleryhyundai.com/main