China Exits Gwangju Biennale Over 'Taiwan Pavilion' Label as Frieze Seoul and Asian Auctions Surge

Key facts

• China withdrew from the Gwangju Biennale after organizers restored the name 'Taiwan Pavilion' for the Taiwanese pavilion.
• Seoul stated the naming decision belongs to the independent foundation organizing the Biennale and does not change South Korean policy.
• Frieze Seoul drew over 70,000 visitors from 54 countries and regions.
• A Yoo Youngkuk work sold for approximately $1.6–1.85 million at Frieze Seoul, the highest price for a Korean artist in the fair's five editions.
• Shinwa Auction in Tokyo will offer a 1980 Chagall estimated at 15–25 million yen and a 1931 Kandinsky estimated at 4–6 million yen on September 12.
• A Tang dynasty dog figure sold for HK$5.248 million at Sotheby's Hong Kong after 44 bids, against an estimate of HK$200,000–300,000.
• A Jizhou bowl from the Song dynasty fetched HK$10.624 million at Sotheby's Hong Kong, setting a new auction record for the type.
• Christie's London will auction Johnny Marr's collection on September 17, including a Rickenbacker 330, Gibson ES-355, and Fender Jaguar, with estimates up to £150,000.