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A New Art Frontier: MAINICHI x SBI JOINT VIEWING in Seoul

In a remarkable collaboration, Mainichi Auction Co., Ltd. and SBI Art Auction Co., Ltd. are proud to present the inaugural special preview event titled "MAINICHI x SBI JOINT VIEWING". Set to take place in Seoul, South Korea at the prestigious Gangnam Center of Seoul Auction, this event aims to bridge the rich artistic heritages of Korea and Japan.

A Cultural Tapestry

Both Korea and Japan have long shared deep cultural ties, rooted in a history of artistic exchange that spans centuries. This bond is most evident in the world of art, where traditional Korean ceramics, particularly the aesthetics of Goryeo ceramics, have had a profound influence on Japanese sensibilities. The upcoming viewing will highlight this cultural synergy by showcasing a carefully curated selection of artworks that embody the essence of both traditional and contemporary art from Korea and Japan.

Mainichi Auction plans to present a notable collection that focuses on exquisite works from the Joseon Dynasty, emphasizing pieces that have remained hidden in Japan for decades. Concurrently, SBI Art Auction will introduce celebrated contemporary Japanese artists whose works have garnered acclaim in Korea.

Venue of Significance

The Gangnam Center of Seoul Auction will serve as the joint viewing's venue, a fitting location for this collaborative effort between two of Japan's leading auction houses. Holding the event at such a well-respected auction house known for its connections with prominent Korean collectors and museums adds an additional layer of significance to this occasion. This is not merely a showcase, but a celebration of the historical and cultural connections that transcend borders.

Featured Cultural Treasures

Among the exceptional pieces displayed will be 25 selected masterpieces of Korean antique art and 5 significant works by contemporary artist Jeong Sang-ho. Highlights include the Joseon Dynastic Porcelain Vase adorned with a rare design featuring potted bonsai and small birds, encapsulating both beauty and craftsmanship from the 18th century. Another standout piece is the Goryeo Celadon Duck-shaped Water Dropper, which dates back to the 12th century, renowned for its delicate depiction of a duck holding a lotus stem. Such pieces exemplify the unique aesthetics and technical accomplishments of Korea's high-quality ceramists and represent national treasures that testify to the country’s rich cultural history.

The Vibrancy of Japanese Contemporary Art

At the heart of the viewing will be the vibrant 60cm canvas by acclaimed artist Izumi Kato. Known for merging primitive life forms with organic shapes in his distinctive sculptures and paintings, his work has garnered significant attention in previous art events. Alongside Kato's masterpieces, the showcase will feature a selection of works by KYNE, an artist who has blended traditional Japanese painting with elements of 80s pop culture, and Rei Imai’s captivating depictions of everyday moments as seen through her smartphone lens, including a popular motif of butter toast. The total exhibition will include approximately 17 artworks slated for public viewing.

Event Details

• - Event Name: MAINICHI x SBI JOINT VIEWING
• - Date: March 20, 2026 (Friday) from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, March 21-22, 2026 (Saturday-Sunday) from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• - Venue: Gangnam Center of Seoul Auction 3F, 864 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• - Entry: Open to all, pre-registration is not required.
• - Special Page: Event Info Link

Future Auctions

The excitement does not end here. Mainichi Auction plans its 846th Antique and Art Auction on April 11, 2026, with previews from April 9-10, and SBI Art Auction will hold its 80th auction focusing on modern and contemporary art on May 22-23, 2026.

With the OPEN VIEWING, collectors and art lovers are invited to experience a unique intersection of historical masterworks and modern artistic expressions from both cultures. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of Korean and Japanese art.