Sotheby’s Announces New Seoul Space
By Alex Yiu
Exterior of Sotheby’s Seoul Office Building in Nannam-dong, Seoul. Courtesy Yoon Joonhwan.
International auction house Sotheby’s announced September 4 that it will open a new space in Seoul later this month to mark its 50th anniversary in Asia. Located in the Hannam-dong neighborhood, home to Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, the space will occupy 150 square-meters inside the Hannam Hwawon Building and will host exhibitions, talks, and workshops.
Jane Yoon, managing director of Sotheby’s in South Korea, has expressed her enthusiasm toward a permanent space in the capital: “It is very exciting for Sotheby’s to be part of this dynamic setting to connect with both established and young collectors on the ground.” The move will likely entice the next generation of emerging collectors in South Korea, known collectively as “MZ” (millennial and Gen Z). Since 2020, younger entrepreneurs have increased their presence in Sotheby’s global sales, with three-quarters of buyers from South Korea being new to the company.
Despite the new location not opening in time for Frieze Seoul, Sotheby’s will present a joint exhibition of works by British artist Banksy and the late American artist Keith Haring at Paradise Art Space from 5 September.
Alex Yiu is ArtAsiaPacific’s associate editor.
