ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Seoul Collector Seunghue Lee's 200-Work Collection Debuts in Samcheong-ro

exhibition · 2026-08-26

Seunghue Lee, a collector based in Seoul, embarked on his art journey with a single piece by the acclaimed Korean artist Kim Tschang-Yeul. After relocating to a new residence, Lee acquired 'Recurrence' (1993), which showcases hyperrealistic water droplets juxtaposed with intricately printed Chinese characters. Captivated by the artwork, he delved into Kim's background, learning that the artist was among the first Koreans to visit Paris and eventually make it his home. This cultural fusion in the painting struck a chord with Lee, mirroring the artist's experiences. Now, seven years later, Lee has curated a collection nearing 200 pieces that encompass Korean modernism, post-war abstraction, and global contemporary art. His collection's inaugural public exhibition is currently accessible by appointment in Seoul's chic Samcheong-ro area. Lee's evolving taste and open-ended aspirations are reflected in the exhibition's title, 'What the...' (truncated in the source), which offers a glimpse into his collecting philosophy and passion's journey.

Key facts

  • Seunghue Lee bought his first painting, 'Recurrence' (1993) by Kim Tschang-Yeul, after moving into a new home in Seoul.
  • The painting features hyperrealistic water drops overlaid on densely printed Chinese characters.
  • Lee was inspired by Kim's life story: one of the first Korean artists to travel to Paris and live in France.
  • Seven years after his first purchase, Lee has built a collection of nearly 200 works.
  • The collection spans Korean modernism, post-war abstraction, and contemporary art from across the globe.
  • The first public exhibition of the collection is currently on view by appointment in Seoul's Samcheong-ro district.
  • The exhibition is titled 'What the...' (truncated in the source).
  • Lee's taste is still evolving, and his ambitions remain deliberately open-ended.

Entities

Artists

  • Seunghue Lee
  • Kim Tschang-Yeul

Institutions

  • Artsy

Locations

  • Seoul
  • South Korea
  • Paris
  • France
  • Samcheong-ro

Sources