‘Frizz House Seoul’ lands, will Yaksu-dong become the new art hub?

From London to Seoul: What is Frieze House?

Frieze House Seoul is a flexible exhibition space modeled after ‘No.9 Cork Street’ in London. Instead of a specific gallery residing there, major galleries from around the world selected through Frieze’s international network will present exhibitions in a short-term residency format. It is expected to inject new vitality into Seoul’s art landscape through dynamic programs such as curated exhibitions and special projects. Choosing Yaksu-dong, a geographical hub connecting major art spots in Gangnam and Gangbuk, is also a strategic decision considering this hub role.

Harmony of Past and Present: Transformation of a House Built in 1988

Frieze House Seoul was born from the renovation of a house built in 1988, a transitional period in Korean modern history. The architectural studio ‘Office Hyuja’ designed it, preserving the architectural ambiance of the time while transforming it into a modern exhibition space. The total area of 210㎡ spans four floors, consisting of two exhibition rooms, an indoor space for sculptures, and a spacious garden suitable for events.

SANAA’s Installation Work Adds Resonance to the Space

In particular, the site-specific installation work by the Japanese architectural studio SANAA, installed in the garden, symbolically represents the identity of Frieze House Seoul. Composed of aluminum sheets and stainless legs, this work features a concave center that becomes a small pond collecting rainwater. Beyond being simple furniture, this piece explores the boundaries between sculpture and architecture, showcasing the aspiration for a space where nature and art resonate.

Opening in September, Together with Frieze Seoul

Frieze House Seoul will officially open in September, coinciding with the period of . The opening program will include a performance-centered ‘Frieze Live’ and special projects set against the backdrop of various locations throughout Seoul. Patrick Lee, the director of Frieze Seoul, expressed his hopes, stating, “I wanted to create a space that reflects the energy and experimental spirit of Seoul,” adding that it will become a platform for a new dialogue between Korean and international contemporary art.

Now, Seoul has transformed into a city where one can encounter world-class contemporary art not just for a few days a year, but 365 days a year. Attention is focused on what role Frieze House Seoul will play as a bridge connecting the Korean art scene and the global art scene.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. When and where will Frieze House Seoul open?

A. It will open in September 2025 at 17 Dongho-ro 15-gil, Yaksu-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul. It will officially start operations in line with the Frieze Seoul 2025 art fair period.

Q. What is the admission fee, and how can I visit?

A. The operating hours are from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and it is closed on Mondays. Details regarding admission fees and other operational policies will be announced on the official Frieze website in line with the opening.

Q. What exhibitions can I see?

A. Instead of a specific gallery residing there, it will operate in a ‘gallery residency’ format where various galleries selected by Frieze will take turns presenting exhibitions over different periods. Each time, visitors can expect to see a new exhibition.