Icheon and Beyond: Korean Ceramics as Living Practice at KCCUK

The Korean Cultural Centre UK presents 'Icheon and Beyond: The Space Within Form', an exhibition curated by Jaemin Cha that repositions Korean ceramics as a dynamic, evolving practice rather than a static tradition. Running from June 5, 2026, the show features master artisans and contemporary artists including Gwangsu Seo, Mimi Joung, Yusun Won, Hwajeong Yeo, and others. Cha emphasizes that the exhibition explores relationships between generations, materials, and place, with Icheon itself—a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art—acting as a central participant. The city rebuilt itself after the Korean War around its clay deposits and kilns, fostering an ecosystem of knowledge exchange. Contemporary artists like Yusun Won incorporate Jeju volcanic soil, while master artisans selected works they felt would resonate with British audiences. The exhibition is free and open Monday to Friday, 10am–5:30pm, and aligns with London Craft Week. Cha notes that ceramics involves a dialogue between skill and unpredictability, as seen in Seo's copper-red flambe jar, where firing conditions determine the outcome. The KCCUK aims to contribute to broader international cultural conversations rather than simply introduce Korean culture.