Kiaf SEOUL: A Glimpse into Future Development
On the morning of November 27th, Monday, the inaugural public hearing of "Kiaf SEOUL 2023" was held at the Conference House The Dalgaebi, organized by the Galleries Association of Korea. This gathering, hosted by the association, marked the conclusion of the Kiaf SEOUL 2023 event and provided a platform for collecting diverse opinions to pave the way for future progress.
The public hearing commenced with an opening address by Hwang Dalseung, the Chairman of the Galleries Association of Korea, followed by a presentation on the outcomes of Kiaf SEOUL 2023. Subsequently, a panel of ten external experts engaged in a discussion on six agenda items. The panelists included Kim Sang-hoon (Dean of the Graduate School of Business at Seoul National University), Moon So-young (Journalist at JoongAng Ilbo Sunday), Shim Ji-eon (Editor-in-Chief of Monthly Art), You Byung-an (CEO of Archigroup MA), Yoo Jin-sang (Professor at Kaywon University of Art & Design), Lee Jang-uk (Senior Curator at Space K), Lee Tae-ho (Director of Culture and Arts at Gimhae Cultural Foundation), along with representatives from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
Key agenda items included discussions on the identity and future direction of Kiaf SEOUL, the evaluation of participating galleries, enhancement of operational programs, logistics and spatial arrangements, as well as promotion and collaboration with external institutions.
In addressing the first agenda item related to the identity of Kiaf SEOUL, Professor Yoo Jin-sang emphasized the need for continued development of inspection systems and for improvements based on market research to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape, particularly in light of the joint collaboration with Frieze Seoul. Curator Lee Jang-uk also stressed the importance of differentiating Kiaf from Frieze by discovering domestic artists and creating booth arrangements that showcase its variety. In terms of sustainable growth, Professor Kim Sang-hoon advocated for a promotion of Seoul Art Week centered around Kiaf SEOUL. In response, city officials pledged active support for promotion as in past editions, and the representative from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, referring the fact that the government is actively implementing policies for the overall development of the Korean art market after all, proposed that Kiaf's unique collaboration with youth and local artists be strengthened.
Discussion on participating galleries, directly tied to the identity agenda, saw experts positively evaluating the Kiaf PLUS initiative since 2022. However, they suggested the need for a more dynamic atmosphere throughout the fair by adjusting booth layouts and involving young, talented galleries. CEO You Byung-an suggested a reevaluation of the exhibition and service space ratio within the limited area, emphasizing the correlation between efficiency and high-quality service space operation and visitor satisfaction. Lee Tae-ho, the director, highlighted the necessity for galleries to demonstrate planning capabilities tailored to the expanded target audience, aligning with the three-year mark of the joint collaboration with Frieze.
Regarding promotion, Editor-in-Chief Shim Ji-eon noted the increased variety and diversity in supplementary programs presented in the year 2023 but pointed out a slight tendency toward ambiguity in themes. Shim suggested connecting events and exhibitions being held simultaneously throughout Seoul as a 'platform,' advocating for effective promotion and operation through 'selection and concentration’ rather than expanding internal programs.
Chairman Hwang Dalseung, reflecting on the expert opinions, expressed optimism for Kiaf SEOUL 2024, envisioning it as a platform for introducing carefully evaluated galleries and artworks with a focus on internationalization in Asia. He also emphasized the need and hope for collaboration with more art institutions for further development. Chairman Hwang urged for unwavering advice and continuous interest to ensure Kiaf SEOUL's position as a leading art event in Asia showcasing both dynamic contemporary art and new works by established artists.
