Gallery B612 Curator Viewpoints: Closing Thoughts on BongJun Kim’s Solo Exhibition

Summary with Addition of Curator MiYoung Margolis's Perspective

As a Korean-American curator and gallery director, I, MiYoung Margolis, find immense joy and pride in showcasing the work of artists like BongJun Kim, who embody the spirit of Korea’s democracy and the hard-won freedom of expression. His artistic journey holds profound importance, as it is through the dedication of such cultural pioneers that Korean art has reached its global acclaim today. Without the tireless efforts of artists like BongJun, the creative freedom we enjoy today might have remained a distant dream.

Captured by Seattle Korean Daily, The Artist Talk: BongJun Kim on Jan 9th, 2025

Captured by Seattle Korean Daily, The Artist Talk: BongJun Kim on Jan 9th, 2025

BongJun’s lifelong commitment to his homeland and its stories is evident in every piece of his work. From the ancient myths imbued with Korean spirit to the lived experiences of its people, his art chronicles the historical and cultural essence of Korea. It was a great honor for me to host his first solo exhibition in the United States at Gallery B612, which provided an opportunity to explore his remarkable woodblock prints.

BongJun’s printmaking process is truly unique. Each piece, though created from the same carved woodblock, is individually hand-colored and adapted to fit the narrative of that specific moment. This means that no two prints are exactly alike, adding a layer of personal storytelling to each work. His art is ever-evolving, shaped by his reflections and emotions, making each piece an intimate expression of his journey.

For those who want to experience BongJun’s masterpieces, they are currently on display at Gallery B612. You can also explore his work through the gallery’s Artsy online platform or delve deeper into his artistic journey through his feature in the Gallery B612 Magazine, accessible on our website here.

Click :

Artsy online platform: Bong Jun Kim: A Retrospective | Artsy

Gallery B612 Magazine: Bong Jun Kim: A Retrospective | Gallery B612

Among the collection are his traditional Korean genre prints, which are both culturally significant and visually striking. I invite everyone to visit Gallery B612 to connect with these extraordinary works and celebrate the enduring legacy of Korean art and its rich history.

This exhibition not only showcases BongJun’s artistic achievements but also honors the spirit of freedom and resilience that lies at the heart of Korea’s cultural and democratic journey.

Key Themes

• Harmony between spirituality, nature, and humanity.

• The role of art in democracy, resilience, and social change.

• Celebration of Korean cultural traditions through universal connections.

This exhibition offered profound insights into Korea’s history and philosophy while showcasing the enduring legacy of its art. It invited everyone to appreciate the depth of Korean culture, and the timeless stories of resilience and hope told through BongJun’s exceptional artistry.

BongJun Kim’s Artist Talk at Gallery B612

On January 9th, 2025, Gallery B612 had the honor of hosting BongJun Kim’s Artist Talk, a profound and inspiring event that delved deeply into his body of work. The conversation explored the themes, techniques, and cultural narratives that define BongJun’s art, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with his creative process and the stories behind his remarkable pieces.

As part of the event, BongJun shared insights into his lifelong dedication to Korean culture, history, and democracy. Discussions covered his iconic works, such as The Goddess of Water, Bittersweet Laughter, and his Kimch Festival, alongside his reflections on using woodblock printing as a medium to weave together personal stories, ancient myths, and social justice themes.

BongJun emphasized the individuality of his prints, where each piece—hand-colored and uniquely adapted—becomes a one-of-a-kind artwork. The talk also highlighted his commitment to capturing Korea’s cultural spirit, from the cosmology of Cheonbu-gyeong to the resilience embodied in 5.18 and the 2016 Candlelight Vigils. Attendees were moved by his stories of overcoming political oppression and using art as a voice for freedom, democracy, and human connection.

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Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준)Woodblock Calligraphy, Cheonbugyeong, 1985

Cheonbu-gyeong: The Ancient Korean Cosmology

BongJun’s art reflects the ancient Korean scripture Cheonbu-gyeong, which describes the universe's harmony through Heaven (Cheon), Earth (Ji), and Life (In). These foundational elements inspire his creative process, visually expressing the cycle of creation from Mu (nothingness) to Yu (existence). His works incorporate the sacred number 3, a core element in Korean culture, symbolizing cosmic harmony and spiritual cycles.

Click : Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) | Woodblock Calligraphy, Cheonbugyeong (1985) | Available for Sale | Artsy

Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) Crying for May 18th, 2019 Sold

Crying for May 18

BongJun’s 5.18 artwork commemorates the Gwangju Uprising, honoring the courage and sacrifice of civilians resisting oppression. A survivor of political persecution in the 1980s, BongJun channels the trauma and defiance of that time into his art, underscoring themes of democracy, freedom, and peace.

Learn More: Click - Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) | Crying for May 18th (2019) | Artsy

Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) Day of Victory, 2017 Woodcut print with hand-painted watercolor, 60 × 40 cm

2017 Day of Victory

BongJun’s depiction of the 2016 Candlelight Revolution illustrates the evolution of Korea’s democracy. His work links movements such as Donghak, Gwangju, and the Candlelight Vigils, emphasizing collective resistance and transformative centrism in pursuit of peace and unity.

Click: Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) | Day of Victory (2017) | Available for Sale | Artsy

Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) Kimjang Hanmadang (Kimchi Festival) 550x155cm, Acrylic 2024

Kimchi Festival

The Kimjang Hanmadang (Kimchi Festival) artwork celebrates Kimjang—Korea’s traditional kimchi-making ritual. Inspired by the Korean community in Seattle, BongJun captures the communal joy, love, and cultural sustainability of this UNESCO-recognized heritage through dynamic and vibrant imagery.

Bong Jun Kim (김 봉준) Who is looking for me? 550x155cm, Acrylic, 2023

Madang: The Sacred Courtyard

BongJun emphasizes Madang (courtyard) as a sacred space connecting heaven, earth, and humanity through rituals. His Madang-themed artworks celebrate healing, coexistence, and the cycles of life, reflecting a profound respect for nature and the sacredness of daily life.

Photography by Seattle Korean Daily, the Opening Reception & the Artist Talk

Experience the Art of BongJun Kim at Gallery B612

The Artist Talk with BongJun Kim at Gallery B612 was more than just a conversation—it was a profound exploration of the heart and soul of Korean culture, history, and resilience. His works illuminate the power of art to bridge generations, inspire change, and connect us to the rich tapestry of shared human stories.

We are proud to continue showcasing BongJun’s Korean Folklife Art as part of our current group exhibition, "UNTITLED." This dynamic collection highlights diverse voices and creative visions, and BongJun’s pieces add a deeply resonant cultural dimension to the show.

We invite you to experience the beauty, depth, and storytelling in BongJun’s work firsthand. Visit Gallery B612 to view this extraordinary collection or explore it online through our Artsy platform and Magazine here.

Click:

Artsy online platform: Bong Jun Kim: A Retrospective | Artsy

Gallery B612 Magazine: Bong Jun Kim: A Retrospective | Gallery B612

Don’t miss this chance to engage with art that celebrates tradition, resilience, and the enduring spirit of humanity. We look forward to welcoming you to the gallery!

"UNTITLED" January 16th ~ February 19th, 2025, Gallery B612