Jeonnam International Ink Biennale Gains Popularity, Surpasses 100,000 Visitors

Expanding Beyond Traditional Painting to Media Art
Diverse Programs for Family Visitors Gaining Popularity

Children using VR at the Jeonnam International Sumukh Biennale site. Provided by Jeonnam Province

The 2025 Jeonnam International Ink Biennale, featuring works that bridge tradition and modernity, East and West, as well as unique experiential programs, has drawn significant attention and surpassed 100,000 cumulative visitors just 20 days after opening. The final goal of reaching 400,000 visitors is also expected to be achieved without difficulty.

According to the Jeonnam International Ink Biennale Secretariat on September 18, exhibition venues across Mokpo, Jindo, and Haenam have been crowded with visitors every weekend, resulting in more than 100,000 cumulative visitors as of this day.

The original version of "Portrait of Three Horses" by Gongjae Yun Duseo, a leading ink painter of the late Joseon Dynasty, has been unveiled to the public for the first time in 321 years. Works that go beyond traditional painting into video, installation, and media art have provided fresh artistic experiences, especially for younger generations, spreading through word of mouth and continuing to attract visitors.

Diverse programs, such as Ink Beachcombing Art at Mokpo Culture and Arts Center and Shrinkles Keyring Making at the Ttangkkeut Pilgrimage Literature Museum in Haenam, have also contributed to the event's popularity among teenagers and family visitors.

An official from the international arts and culture community remarked, "Korean ink painting is deeply rooted in tradition yet reinterpreted in a modern way, which is very impressive," adding, "Compared to previous editions, the Biennale stands out as even more international and sophisticated."

Visitors to the Ink Biennale have responded positively, saying, "The works are innovative. I realized how fascinating ink painting can be."

A parent who visited the exhibition with their child shared, "Because the exhibition incorporates a variety of cultural stories centered on ink painting, it naturally delivers educational messages to children. There are many engaging elements for kids, making it an excellent destination for family outings."

Kim Hyungsoo, Secretary-General of the Jeonnam International Ink Biennale, stated, "The enthusiastic response from visitors is proving the potential for this year's Ink Biennale to succeed. At this pace, not only will we surpass the record from the previous edition, but we will also further solidify our status as the world's only ink biennale."

The 2025 Jeonnam International Ink Biennale, which opened on August 30, will run through October 31 at various locations across Mokpo, Jindo, Haenam, and other areas in Jeonnam Province.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.