Gallery Hyundai is a contemporary art gallery at 14 Samcheong-ro in Seoul’s Jongno District, close to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Founded in 1970, it has introduced Korean modern art and artists to audiences in Korea and abroad. Exhibitions change, with past shows ranging from works by international artist Tomas Saraceno to Munjado paintings from the Joseon period. Art is displayed across three floors, and admission is free. Check the gallery’s website for current exhibitions before you go.
A gallery founded in 1970
Gallery Hyundai opened in Seoul in 1970 under the name Hyundai Gallery. Its founder, Park Myung-ja, set out to promote Korean modern art internationally. The gallery was among the first in Korea to introduce abstract art, and it helped develop the country’s contemporary art scene.
Artists who made early appearances at the gallery include Lee Ufan, Nam June Paik and Park Seo-bo. Over the years, it has also presented work by established Korean artists such as Park Soo Keun, Lee Joong-seop and Lee Dai-won. Its programme has included both Korean and international artists.
Changing exhibitions across three floors
The gallery’s exhibitions change, so the work on view depends on when you visit. Past shows have included contemporary installations by Tomas Saraceno, work by Kim Sung Yoon, and Munjado, a form of Korean painting associated with the Joseon period. The gallery has also presented exhibitions focused on individual artists, including a 2023 retrospective of experimental artist Sung Neung-kyung, with 140 works.
The artwork is spread across three floors. Check the gallery’s website before setting out if you have a particular artist or kind of work in mind.
Location and gallery spaces
Gallery Hyundai is at 14 Samcheong-ro in Jongno District, close to Gyeongbokgung Palace. It sits along a stretch known for its galleries, making it easy to include in a walk through the area.
The gallery has operated spaces in Sagan-dong and Gangnam, and has also run Dugahun, an art space, wine bar and restaurant housed in a traditional Korean hanok. Check the website for current exhibition and location information before visiting.
FAQ
Is admission to Gallery Hyundai free?
Yes. Entry is free.
Where is Gallery Hyundai?
It is at 14 Samcheong-ro in Jongno District, Seoul, close to Gyeongbokgung Palace.
How many floors display art?
The artwork is displayed across three floors.
What can you see at Gallery Hyundai?
The exhibitions change. Past displays have included Korean and international contemporary art, as well as Munjado paintings from the Joseon period.
