Arts Council Korea (Arko) announced Wednesday that it will open a groundbreaking exhibition showcasing the creative works of its inaugural artists-in-residence program at the organization's newly established art studio facility in northern Seoul. The exhibition represents a significant milestone in Korea's efforts to strengthen international cultural collaboration and artistic exchange.
The exhibition, titled "In Situ," will feature the artistic creations of ten talented artists who participated in the residency program. The diverse group includes four Korean artists alongside six international artists representing Finland, Vietnam, Japan, Poland, Austria, and Mozambique. This carefully selected cohort reflects Arko's commitment to fostering global artistic dialogue and cross-cultural understanding through contemporary art.
According to Arko officials, the exhibition title "In Situ" carries deep significance for the artistic works on display. The Latin phrase, meaning "in position" or "on site," perfectly captures the essence of the artists' creative journey as they explored and responded to their new surroundings in Seoul. All the works featured in the exhibition are direct results of the artists' immersive experiences while working at the Arko Art Creation Studio, showcasing how environment and cultural context influence artistic expression.
The state-funded arts policy organization launched the dedicated residency studio in June 2025 as part of its broader mission to cultivate and strengthen Korea's art ecosystem. The facility serves as a specialized space designed to accommodate both Korean and international artists, providing them with the resources and environment necessary for creative exploration and cultural exchange. This initiative represents a major milestone in Arko's strategic efforts to foster global artistic collaboration and significantly expand Korea's cultural presence on the international stage.
The ten selected artists participated in the program through two distinct cohorts, allowing for different seasonal experiences and creative perspectives. The first group of artists completed their residencies from June through September 2025, experiencing Seoul during the summer months and early autumn. The second cohort is currently in residence, providing them with a different temporal and environmental context for their artistic work.
The comprehensive exhibition will run from Thursday, November 20, 2025, through January 18, 2026, at the prestigious Arko Art Center, giving visitors an extended opportunity to experience the diverse creative outputs of this international artistic collaboration. The exhibition promises to offer insights into how artists from different cultural backgrounds interpret and respond to Korean society, urban environments, and contemporary cultural dynamics through their unique artistic lenses.
