Asia's Largest Art Fair, Art Basel Hong Kong Opens...A Test for Market Recovery

240 Galleries from 41 Countries Join the Fair
Eighteen Korean Galleries Participate, with Special Focus on Kang Seokyung

Asia's largest art fair, Art Basel Hong Kong, opened on March 25 with a VIP preview at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. All eyes are on the event, as it serves as the first real test of whether the art market—contracted by the global economic slowdown and geopolitical uncertainties—can continue its recovery this year.

Exhibition view of Art Basel Hong Kong 2025. Photo by Art Basel Hong Kong

Art Basel Hong Kong originated as 'Art HK' in 2008 and has operated under its current name since 2013. It is the largest art market in Asia, attracting around 80,000 visitors each year, with total transaction volumes estimated to be around 1 trillion won.

This year's event features 240 galleries from 41 countries around the world. While the scale is similar to last year, the fact that more than half of the participating galleries are based in the Asia-Pacific region underscores Hong Kong's continued role as a central stage for the Asian art market.

Eighteen Korean galleries are participating, making their presence felt. In the main 'Galleries' section, Arario Gallery, Gallery Baton, Hakgojae, Johyun Gallery, and Leeahn Gallery, among others, have set up booths to showcase works from their leading artists.

Arario Gallery is introducing works by Lee Jinju, Paik Jeonggi, and Park Woongkyu. Hakgojae presents a cross-generational and cross-border lineup, featuring eight artists including Nam June Paik, Yoon Suknam, Song Hyunsook, and Jeong Youngjoo. Johyun Gallery highlights the dynamics of contemporary Korean art through artists such as Kim Tschangyeul, Park Seobo, Lee Bae, and Kang Kanghoon. PKM Gallery is exhibiting works by Yoo Youngkuk, Yun Hyongkeun, Lee Keunmin, and Lee Wonwoo.

Artist Jung Youngjoo's presented by Hakgojae. Photo by Hakgojae

Kukje Gallery is presenting works by Ha Chonghyun, Kim Yoonsin, Park Chan-kyong, Yang Haegue, and Jang Pa. Of particular note, the 'Encounters' section—focusing on large-scale installations—and the 'Cabinet' section—akin to solo presentations—are featuring the late Kang Seokyung's artistic world. Kang Seokyung, who passed away last year, was known for weaving together tradition and contemporary sensibilities across painting, sculpture, installation, video, and performance.

Korean galleries are also participating in sections that spotlight emerging artists. In 'Discoveries,' P21 is presenting a solo booth for Yoo Yerim, while Cylinder is featuring Kwon Hyunbin, and Gallery N/A is introducing Woo Jeongsu. The 'Insights' section, which focuses on one or two artists, includes participation from G Gallery, The Page, and Sun Gallery. In 'Ecos,' which only features works created within the last five years, Whistle Gallery is showcasing pieces by Hyunnam, Park Minha, and Saen Jeong.

Among overseas galleries, London's Herald Street is introducing Korean artist Kim Sangwoo in the 'Cabinet' section. Seoul Auction will also be previewing a selection of works in Hong Kong from March 25 to 28, ahead of its auction in Seoul on March 31.

The event will hold VIP previews through March 26, followed by general admission from March 27 to March 29.

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