Bong-Jun Kim: Remembering Democracy Through Art
On December 19, 2024, Seattle’s Gallery B612 will host the first U.S. solo exhibition of renowned Korean artist Bong-Jun Kim. This exhibition is not just a display of art, but a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Korean people in the pursuit of democracy.
“Art is a tool to remember the past and a voice for the future. The story of Gwangju is not just Korea’s history; it is a universal story for all those who have fought for democracy.”
–Bong-Jun Kim
The timing of this exhibition is particularly significant, as South Korea currently faces global attention due to the recent emergency declaration of martial law and concerns over a potential departure from the democratic stability of the past four decades.
Bong-Jun's art, a cornerstone of the 1980's Democracy movement serves as a timely juxtaposition against the backdrop of current events. His work, serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made to protect democracy, offering lessons for the present and the future.
Bong-Jun Kim's Art and the Gwangju Uprising
Bong-Jun is best known for his work that draws from the 1980 Gwangju Uprising, a pivotal moment in South Korea’s fight for democracy. His art vividly portrays the stories of ordinary citizens who resisted military dictatorship, capturing both the pain of their sacrifices and the enduring hope for a better future.
Crying for May 18. 75x55cm, Woodcut 2019 | Bong-Jun Kim
This exhibition will feature Kim’s most iconic works as well as newer pieces that delve into modern democratic movements, such as Korea’s 2016 Candlelight Revolution. Each piece invites viewers to reflect on the enduring fight for justice and freedom.
Gallery B612 and the Vision of Director Miyoung Margolis
This special exhibition was made possible by Miyoung Margolis, the Korean-born director of Gallery B612, who is dedicated to connecting Korean art with global audiences.
Margolis shared her thoughts on the exhibition:
“At a time when democracy faces challenges worldwide, remembering and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom is more important than ever. Bong-Jun’s works carry a universal message that transcends borders.”
Victory day. 40x35cm Silkscreen printing 2017 | Bong-Jun Kim
The Current Context: Democracy at a Crossroads
Recent allegations of an illegal emergency declaration of martial law in South Korea have raised serious concerns about democratic stability in the country. As such, Bong-Jun’s work feels more relevant than ever. His art not only commemorates past struggles but also urges us to safeguard democracy in the present.
“This exhibition is not just about the past; it’s about understanding what democracy means today and what we must do to protect it for the future.” - MiYoung Margolis
Bong-Jun Kim's Solo Art Exhibition Details and Opening Reception
Opening Reception | BongJun Kim: A Retrospective | Gallery B612
• Exhibition Dates: December 19, 2024 - January 10, 2025
• Opening Reception: December 19, 6:30 PM
• Artist Talk: January 9, 6:30 PM
• Location: Gallery B612, Seattle
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the stories of those who fought for democracy, brought to life through Kim Bong-Jun’s masterful work.
Kimchi Festival. 550x155cm Acrylic painting 2024 | Bong-Jun, Kim
A Parallel with Han Kang’s Nobel Prize
Today, December 10, marks another historic moment for Korean art and history. At the 2024 Nobel Prize Ceremony in Stockholm, Swedish Academy awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature to Korean author Han Kang for her novel “The Boy is Coming” (“소년이 온다”). The novel, which also centers on the Gwangju Uprising, has been lauded for its unflinching portrayal of sacrifice and resilience in the face of oppression. (Related Han Kang – Prose - NobelPrize.org)
Han Kang's novel "The Boy Is Coming," which won the Nobel Prize for Literature
Bong-Jun’s work shares the same purpose as Han Kang’s literature: both aim to keep alive the memory of those who gave their lives for democracy. Through different artistic mediums, they ensure that the story of Gwangju reaches audiences worldwide, inspiring reflection and action.
Art as a Call to Action
Kim Bong-Jun’s first U.S. solo exhibition is not just a showcase of his art but a reminder of the cost of democracy and the courage it requires to defend it. At a time when democracy is under threat globally, this exhibition highlights the importance of remembering the past and protecting the ideals of justice and freedom for the future.
Join Gallery B612 at the Opening Reception to experience Kim Bong-Jun’s evocative works and hear the stories behind them.
