A Visit to Seonhyewon: Kimsooja's 'Breath' Exhibition
132-4 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
선혜원
In the heart of Samcheong-dong, a hidden historical gem has recently opened its doors to the public. Seonhyewon (선혜원), once the private residence of the SK Group's founder, has been beautifully renovated into a research institute and cultural space. To celebrate this new beginning, the Seonhyewon Art Project 1.0 presents 'Breath' by the world-renowned artist Kimsooja. This exhibition marks a harmonious intersection between modern art and the profound tranquility of traditional Korean architecture.
The exhibition, available via free Naver Booking until October, is a multi-chapter sensory journey. From immersive mirror installations in a Hanok to symbolic 'Bottari' (bundles) that touch upon memory and history, Kimsooja's work transforms the site into a living masterpiece. Even the functional spaces, like the art-themed elevators and luxurious restrooms, contribute to an atmosphere of grand silence and aesthetic wonder, particularly enhanced by the soft rustle of rain against the tile roofs.
Chapter 1: Gyeongheunggak – The Infinite Reflection
The exhibition begins at Gyeongheunggak, where Kimsooja’s most famous mirror installation is housed. The entire floor of the Hanok is covered in mirrors, which literally and figuratively expands the space. This reflection allows visitors to see the intricate details of the traditional ceiling up close, offering a new perspective on the symmetry and beauty of Korean architecture. The silence here is profound, doubled by the visual expansion of the room.
Tip: Because the floor is a mirror, it is highly recommended for visitors to avoid wearing skirts. The grandeur of the high ceilings and the elegant window frames reflecting beneath your feet creates a synesthetic experience where the boundary between the viewer and the building disappears.
The Sun and Moon: Art in the Everyday
Moving between the floors is an experience in itself. Seonhyewon features two elevators designed to represent the Sun and the Moon. The left elevator is brilliantly lit, shining like a solar halo, while the right is dark, illuminated only by a soft lunar glow. This duality continues even into the restrooms, which are designed with a level of luxury and artistic intention that leaves visitors speechless—resembling high-end VIP lounges more than functional facilities.
Chapter 2: Bottari – Embracing Memory and History
On the basement floor (B1), visitors encounter <Bottari> (2022). In Korean culture, a bottari (bundle) is a symbol of travel, migration, and the wrapping of one's life. For Kimsooja, these bundles represent the act of intertwining the self and others, memory and history. The bundles at Seonhyewon appear rough and heavy, inviting the viewer to wonder about the "weight" of the memories wrapped inside.
Chapter 3: Stitching the Earth – The Invisible Needle
The final chapter, <Deductive Object - Bottari> (2023) / Stitching the Earth, is located at Dongyeoru. Here, solid stone pottery pieces—resembling large grains of rice—sit in quiet dialogue with the landscape. Nearby, a white clay wall is pierced with needles, representing "Invisible Needle, Invisible Thread." This work visually expresses the feeling of wounds pricking a pure heart, creating a painful yet refreshing emotional release for the viewer.
Leisure at Dongyeoru: A View of Tranquility
After finishing the exhibition, visitors can rest at Dongyeoru for up to one hour. This cafe-like space offers a stunning view of the Gyeongheunggak area and the surrounding mountains. On a rainy day, the clouds descending onto the mountainside provide a picturesque backdrop, making Seonhyewon feel like a peaceful island in the middle of the busy city. It is a moment to appreciate the true essence of living in harmony with nature.
Photo Gallery: The Many Faces of Seonhyewon
The 'Breath' exhibition is a rare chance to see how the "invisible needle" of art can stitch together history, architecture, and personal memory. Have you ever felt a "painfully refreshing" connection to a piece of modern art, or would you prefer a quiet afternoon simply watching the clouds from a traditional pavilion? If you're looking for other hidden art spots in Samcheong-dong or tips on how to catch a same-day reservation, feel free to ask!
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