Complimentary Address

I would like to express my appreciation to all the art lovers.

Since its foundation in 1976, Galleries Association of Korea has played a leading role in the progress of Korean
art despite plenty of hardships.
Connoisseurship of Galleries Association of Korea, based on 25-year experience on modern and contemporary art, establishes a tremendous database in scale. With this as an educational source, we open a Connoisseurship Academy for the public, which is thought to be the first step for a social service.
The Seoul Art Fair, as the first art fair in Korea now in its 24th year, functioned as the bedrock for a variety of domestic art fairs. Furthermore, it has endeavored for the revitalization of the Korean art market and has continuously nurtured its progress in quality with special exhibitions and the support of emerging artists.
The 2006 Korea International Art Fair was highly acclaimed at home and abroad drawing a record fifty percent increase from last year in attendance and sales figures. Therefore, this is a good barometer to measure the future success of the Seoul Art Fair.
Presently, art is not appreciated as a symbol of religion or the exclusive possession for the aristocratic any longer. Rather, art, as investment, passion and hobby, is being absorbed in the everyday life of the public,
so the Seoul Art Fair is a good opportunity where the general public can take delight in the wonderful artworks.
Finally, I would like to extend my gratitude to all the people who are devoting their efforts to ensure a successful event.

Everyone is warmly welcome to attend the Seoul Art Fair and experience the joy and creativity of Korean art.

September 19, 2006

Hyun Sook Lee
Chairman, Galleries Association of Korea