한중 미술 교류와 한국 미술의 중국 시장 진출 양상 변화 — 2000년대 이후 한국 현대⋅동시대 미술을 중심으로

Abstract

This paper explores the transformation of Korea-China art exchange and the evolving strategies of Korean art’s entry into the Chinese market, focusing on modern and contemporary art since the 2000s. It highlights how diplomatic shifts—such as the THAAD conflict and COVID-19—have influenced cultural interactions, especially in the visual arts sector. Initially characterized by state-led, formal exhibitions in national museums, Korea’s art engagement with China has gradually diversified in the 2000s. Four major shifts are identified: (1) the shift in exhibition organizers from public institutions to private galleries; (2) a broadening of accepted media, including photography, installation, and video art; (3) an increased role for independent Korean curators; and (4) the growth of commercial exchange through participation in art fairs like CIGE and ART021. Despite this diversification, Korean galleries struggled to maintain a presence in China due to local market unfamiliarity and unstable political conditions. After 2008, many withdrew, particularly from Beijing, revealing the limitations of commercially driven approaches without cultural adaptation. Meanwhile, Seoul is emerging as a new Asian art hub, partly due to the decline of Hong Kong and shifting regional dynamics. The paper concludes that successful Korea-China art cooperation now requires a more nuanced, multi-sector approach that integrates cultural diplomacy with flexible, locally informed strategies.