Sound sculptor Kwon Byung-jun wins Korea Artist Prize 2023

The 52-year-old artist’s “sense-stimulating approach” exploring the limitlessness of scientific and technological developments and their relations to humanity earned him one of four finalist spots, the MMCA said in a press release.

An installation image of Kwon Byung-jun's section of the Korea Artist Prize 2023 exhibition ongoing at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in central Seoul [MMCA]

Kwon Byung-jun is the winner of the Korea Artist Prize 2023, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) announced Thursday.

The 52-year-old artist’s “sense-stimulating approach” exploring the limitlessness of scientific and technological developments and their relations to humanity earned him one of four finalist spots, the MMCA said in a press release.

The other three finalists were Gala Porras-Kim, Jun So-jung and Lee Kang-seung. A collective exhibition of their latest works are currently on view at the MMCA’s Seoul branch in central Seoul until next month.

Kwon Byung-jun, the winner of the Korea Artist Prize 2023 [MMCA]

Kwon has created robots that give theater-like performances, with notable pieces like “Robot Crossing a Single Line Bridge” (2023), which does exactly as the title suggests, and “Nael Performing the Fan Dance” (2021), which presents buchaechum, or traditional Korean fan dance.

Established in 2012, the Korea Artist Prize recognizes contemporary artists who explore social issues through their art. Four nominees showcase their art in a group exhibition, and a judging panel selects a final winner.

BY SHIN MIN-HEE [shin.minhee@joongang.co.kr]