Why Seoul Turns Into an Art Hub in September: Inside Frieze and KIAF
Creatrip Team
19 days ago
Every September Seoul transforms into an art festival as major fairs Frieze Seoul and KIAF Seoul open at COEX, attracting global galleries, collectors and art fans. Frieze (a global art fair originating in London) and KIAF (Kiaf — Korea International Art Fair, run by the Korean Gallery Association) bring hundreds of galleries from around the world to showcase top contemporary works, including solo booths by major artists and important Korean names. The events expand beyond COEX into a citywide "Seoul Art Week" with exhibitions and programs across galleries, museums and neighborhoods like Hannam, Cheongdam, Samcheong and Euljiro — plus night events, performances and film programs. Department stores and duty-free shops also join, using special exhibitions and pop-ups to engage high-spending visitors and introduce Korean art to travelers (e.g., a show at Incheon Airport). The fairs turn Seoul into a unified cultural-shopping destination, encouraging visitors to view art, shop, dine and stay — boosting both the art market and urban cultural life.
