The debut edition of Art Asia Delhi 2025, co-hosted by Art Asia and Kintex, was inaugurated at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi, by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India, H.E. Lee Seong-ho, following the traditional lighting of the lamp. Supported by Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Cultural Centre India, the event marks a historic milestone as the largest Korea-led international art fair ever organized in India.
Bringing together 51 galleries and over 220 artists from Korea, India, the United States, Japan, and beyond, the fair showcases more than 760 artworks across 61 booths. The exhibition unfolds across nine curated sections, including a cutting-edge New Media Special Exhibition featuring AI-powered and interactive works, as well as a Master’s Special Exhibition honoring iconic artists from both India and Korea.
The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director General of the National Gallery of Modern Art; Manisha Swami, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations; Yoo Jin Ryong, former Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Republic of Korea; and Lee Dal Gon, former Minister of the Interior and Safety of Republic of Korea.
Calling the fair a “historic art fair,” H.E. Lee Seong-ho said, “This is the largest Korean-led art fair ever organized in India. It showcases not only the vibrant colors, creativity, and spirit of Korean and Asian contemporary art but also the depth of cultural bonds that enriches Korea-India partnership. For art lovers, this is a rare chance to witness the creativity and diverse voices of Asia’s artistic landscape on one stage. This fair is not only about seeing art, it is also about celebrating the shared cultural journey and partnership between our nations.”
Dr. Goutam echoed the sentiment, highlighting art’s power to bridge divides and foster mutual respect. He added, “This exhibition is a testament to the enduring bond between Korea and India, two nations with a deep history of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation. The artworks showcase the diversity and creativity of participating countries, from traditional forms to innovative contemporary pieces. This exhibition is not just a showcase of artistic talent; it is a symbol of our shared humanity and our commitment to creativity, innovation, and mutual respect.”
This exhibition serves as a dynamic art platform blending technology, tradition, and cultural storytelling across nine curated sections. Highlights include the New Media Special Exhibition, the Masters’ Special Exhibition, and showcases that modernize traditional Korean techniques and materials, such as hanji (traditional paper), gold leaf, moon jars, and mother-of-pearl, in a modern way.
The New Media Special Exhibition captivated audiences with immersive, AI-driven installations and interactive technology, offering a glimpse into the future of artistic practice. Meanwhile, the Masters’ Special Exhibition paid tribute to legendary names from both countries.
From India, the exhibition features works by S.H. Raza, Krishen Khanna, Ram Kumar, G.R. Santosh, Bose Krishnamachari, and Jagannath Panda—each reflecting distinct journeys through abstraction, figuration, symbolism, and spiritual exploration. Korea is represented by the late Kim Tschang-Yeul, globally acclaimed for his ‘water drop’ paintings; Lee Bae, known for material-based abstraction; and Kim Hyung-Dae, whose layered light works reimagine tradition.
A special highlight is artist Choi Jeong-Wook, internationally recognized for his ‘Moon Jar’ series and collected by figures such as Bill Gates. His participation in both the Moon Jar Special Exhibition and the Masters’ Special Exhibition offers Indian audiences a rare introduction to the elegance and depth of Korean ceramics and painting.
Art Asia Delhi 2025 runs until 28 September at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the diversity, innovation, and cultural resonance of contemporary Asian art.
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