Basquiat Arrives in Seoul: The Largest-Ever Exhibition of His Symbolic Art at DDP

Basquiat’s Seoul Debut: Why This Exhibition Is a Big Deal

Did you know? Jean-Michel Basquiat, the legendary graffiti artist and modern art icon, is finally getting his first large-scale curated exhibition in Korea! From September 22, 2025, to January 31, 2026, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) Museum Hall 1 will transform into a vibrant celebration of Basquiat’s world. This event, organized by SUM X and backed by Barunson E&A, marks the 60th anniversary of the Central Group and promises to be the largest Basquiat show ever held in Korea. Fans and newcomers alike are buzzing with excitement, eager to experience the raw energy and symbolic language that made Basquiat a global phenomenon.

The Exhibition: Over 220 Works, Notebooks, and More

This isn’t just another art show! The exhibition, titled 'Jean-Michel Basquiat: SIGNS, Connecting Past and Future,' will feature more than 220 pieces, including 33 paintings and 155 pages from Basquiat’s personal notebooks—shown in their entirety for the first time in Korea. These notebooks, created between 1980 and 1987, offer a rare glimpse into the artist’s creative process, packed with sketches, notes, and the cryptic symbols that defined his visual language. The show brings together works from collectors and institutions across three continents and eight countries, making it a truly international event.

Basquiat’s Symbols and Signs: Decoding the Art

Basquiat’s art is famous for its use of signs, symbols, and fragmented language. He drew inspiration from his Haitian and Puerto Rican heritage, New York street culture, and a deep knowledge of art history. His paintings are layered with crowns, skulls, words, and anatomical drawings—each a clue to his thoughts on race, power, and identity. This exhibition invites visitors to decode these symbols, while also exploring how Basquiat’s work resonates with Korean cultural icons like the Uljudaegok-ri petroglyphs, Hunminjeongeum manuscript, Chusa Kim Jeong-hui’s calligraphy, and Nam June Paik’s video art. It’s a cross-cultural dialogue that fans won’t want to miss.

Curators and Collaborators: A World-Class Team

The exhibition is co-curated by Ji Yoon Lee, CEO of SUM X and former managing director of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul, alongside world-renowned Basquiat specialists Dieter Buchhart and Anna Karina Hofbauer. With over 25 Basquiat exhibitions to his name, Buchhart brings deep expertise, ensuring that this show captures both the spirit and complexity of Basquiat’s legacy. Their approach focuses on universal communication through signs and symbols, connecting Basquiat’s visual language to global and Korean contexts.

Basquiat’s Market and Global Influence: Why He Still Matters

Basquiat’s influence on contemporary art is undeniable. In 2017, his 1982 painting 'Untitled' sold for a record-breaking $110.5 million at Sotheby’s, making him one of the most valuable artists of all time. His works continue to headline major auctions, with a recent 1984 piece, 'Sabado por la Noche,' expected to fetch up to $16 million at Christie’s Hong Kong in 2025. Basquiat’s blend of street art, cultural critique, and raw emotion has inspired generations of artists, musicians, and fans worldwide. His art remains a symbol of rebellion, identity, and the power of creative expression.

Community Buzz: Korean Fans and Online Reactions

Korean art communities are already abuzz with anticipation. On platforms like Theqoo, Instiz, and Naver blogs, fans express excitement about seeing Basquiat’s notebooks and large-scale works up close. Some are thrilled about the cross-cultural curation, while others debate ticket prices and accessibility. A popular Naver blog post notes that this exhibition is a rare chance for Korean fans to experience Basquiat’s genius without traveling abroad. Meanwhile, a few skeptics wonder if the symbolism will resonate with local audiences, but most agree it’s a must-see event for anyone interested in modern art.

Cultural Context: What Foreign Fans Should Know

For international readers, understanding Basquiat’s impact in Korea means recognizing the country’s growing appetite for global contemporary art. Seoul has become a major hub for art fairs and exhibitions, attracting collectors and fans from across Asia. The DDP, with its futuristic architecture, is a symbol of this new cultural energy. By linking Basquiat’s signs and symbols to Korean heritage, the exhibition not only honors his legacy but also highlights Korea’s unique perspective on modern art. If you’re planning a visit to Seoul, this is the art event of the year!

What to Expect: Tips for Visiting the Exhibition

The full details—including ticket prices and special programs—are still under wraps, but expect immersive displays, interactive guides, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Whether you’re a longtime Basquiat fan or new to his work, this show promises a deep dive into the artist’s mind and a celebration of the universal language of art. Don’t miss your chance to see Basquiat’s world through the lens of symbols and signs, right in the heart of Seoul!