The 2025 Hangeul International Pre-Biennale is drawing significant attention, having surpassed 20,000 visitors just 14 days after its opening. Hosted by Sejong Special Self-Governing City and the Sejong Culture and Tourism Foundation, the event is attracting crowds with its unique art pieces and diverse hands-on programs centered on the theme of Hangeul.
As of 7:00 PM on September 14, the Pre-Biennale recorded a total of 21,147 visitors. The first week (September 1–7) saw 11,213 visitors, and the second week (September 8–14) brought in 9,934. The festive atmosphere was particularly notable on weekends, with crowds of 2,000 to 3,000 people gathering at the venue.
A key factor in the event's success is the participation of world-renowned drawing artist Mr. Doodle. His mural, "HANGOODLE," which he painted directly on the exterior wall of the 1927 Art Center, has quickly become a new cultural landmark in Sejong City. The piece, a unique blend of Hangeul and doodle art, has become a popular backdrop for visitors taking photos, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of Hangeul art.
In addition, hands-on programs for families are also proving to be very popular. Workshops like "Art-Build" led by artists Byeon Young-mi, Jo Hee-seong, and Jeong Seon-hui, provide visitors with the opportunity to directly engage in creative activities using Hangeul, receiving great feedback. The daily public guided tours, held 2-3 times a day, also see nearly 100 people participating in each session, helping them gain a deeper understanding of Hangeul and art.
Yang Yu-jeong, Director of the Hangeul Culture City Center at the Sejong Culture and Tourism Foundation, stated, "This is a greater achievement than we expected for the initial exhibition," adding that "it proves the significant influence the Pre-Biennale is having on the local culture." Yoo Min-sang, Head of the Hangeul Culture City Division, said, "Even foreign artists are participating in this exhibition, promoting the inclusiveness of Hangeul to the world," and "we plan to continue hosting a variety of exhibitions centered on Hangeul."
The "2025 Hangeul International Pre-Biennale" will continue for a total of 42 days until October 12 at the Jochiwon 1927 Art Center and the Sanil Jesa area. It will remain open throughout Hangeul Day and the Chuseok holiday, with free admission for all sections, which is expected to allow even more citizens to experience Hangeul art.
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