Contemporary Art Beyond Korea

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course surveys key histories and theoretical discourses of contemporary art with a focus on Korea, both North and South. Beginning at the end of the Korean War (1950-1953), the course reexamines the notion of the "postwar" from Korean and broader Asian perspectives, extending the conversation to art produced in the present day. The parallel postwar histories-industrialization, authoritarianism, democratization movements, and globalization across East and Southeast Asia-necessitate an interregional and global approach. Korea, from the aftermath of the Korean War onwards, has served as a testing ground within these interconnected historical trajectories. While centering discussions on artworks and discourses from Korea, the course will also engage with artistic practices from other regions, including but not limited to Japan, China, Taiwan, Europe, the United States, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. This course may include a self-directed visit to the MCA and the Art Institute, along with participation in selected artist talks.