Seoul’s Art Scene Swaps Figurative Frenzy for Abstract Allure and Unexpected Encounters

A quiet shift is underway in Seoul’s art market, where the buzz at Frieze Seoul and KIAF this September wasn’t about blockbuster sales, but about collectors chasing emerging talent—especially those with a flair for abstraction. Solo booths spotlighting rising artists drew the sharpest attention, as local buyers relished the chance to discover fresh voices on home turf. Galleries painted their spaces in bold hues, making each presentation feel like a curated escape from the fair’s visual overload. Meanwhile, the spotlight on contemporary abstraction was unmistakable, with works by both established Korean masters and new-generation artists captivating audiences. The week pulsed with energy beyond the fairs: Banksy’s shredded artwork made its Korean debut, and a surprise performance by rock legend Yoshiki electrified Paradise Art Night. Even the Leeum Museum’s latest exhibition and Prada Mode’s cinematic installations kept the city’s creative current running high. In a market once dominated by figurative trends, Seoul’s collectors now seem ready to let their imaginations roam. Sometimes, the most vivid art is the one that leaves room for the mind to wander. #SeoulArtWeek #ContemporaryArt #ArtFairs #Culture