Major Korean Art Exhibition at Art Institute of Chicago Showcases Millennia of Cultural Heritage
The Art Institute of Chicago has launched its most significant Korean art presentation in four decades. Titled 'Korean National Treasures: 2,000 Years of Art,' the display includes 140 artworks spanning from the 6th century to the modern era. Among these, 22 items hold official National Treasure or Treasure status from South Korea. The entire collection originates from the Lee Kun-Hee family, former Samsung chairman, who donated over 23,000 pieces to the Korean government in 2021. Curated by Yeonsoo Chee, the exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of Korean artistic development across sculpture, painting, and decorative arts. It will remain open until July 5, 2026.
Key facts
- Exhibition features 140 Korean artworks spanning 2,000 years
- 22 pieces are designated National Treasures or Treasures by South Korea
- All works donated by Lee Kun-Hee family in 2021 from private collection
- Largest Korean art show at Art Institute of Chicago in 40 years
- On view from March 7, 2026 to July 5, 2026
Entities
Artists
- Bihyeon
- Kim Kichang
- Kim Whanki
- Lee Kun-Hee
- Minhui
- No Soohyeon
- Paik Namsoon
- Park Rehyun
- Yi Myunggii
Institutions
- Art Institute of Chicago
- National Museum of Korea
- National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea
- Samsung Group
- Whanki Foundation
Locations
- Chicago
- South Korea