Artist Residencies in South Korea

Art Center Nabi

Seoul, South Korea

Art Center Nabi operates a global residency program for media artists, fostering innovation and creativity at the intersection of art and technology. The Nabi Artist Residency provides a platform for artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to explore artistic possibilities and engage in socio-cultural exchanges. Located in Seoul, South Korea, the residency supports artists in research and creative activities, offering opportunities for exhibitions, artist talks, and networking with domestic and international creative laboratories. Participants receive financial support, including a grant, airfare, and accommodation, and are encouraged to critically engage with themes such as robotics, artificial intelligence, interactive media, and Eastern philosophy.

Asian Culture Center (ACC)

Gwangju, South Korea

The Asia Culture Center (ACC) Residency, located in Gwangju, South Korea, is a premier international residency program fostering the intersection of art and technology. The ACC Residency encompasses various platforms such as ACC CREATORS and ACC Theater, each tailored to support different aspects of artistic development. The residencies are known for their focus on future-oriented themes and often explore the dynamic between art, science, and technology. The ACC CREATORS Residency caters specifically to professionals across diverse fields—artists, researchers, engineers—encouraging them to develop innovative ideas through access to advanced studios and collaborative opportunities. This platform supports experimental projects that integrate AI and various digital interfaces to challenge and expand the boundaries of traditional art forms. Conversely, the ACC Theater Residency focuses on the performing arts, providing resources like Korea’s largest modifiable black box theater to experiment with and finalize performance arts projects. It supports the creation, development, and presentation of new experimental works, offering systematic support through mentoring and showcasing opportunities. Both residencies offer private studios, community spaces, and accommodations to facilitate creative activities. They provide substantial financial support, expert consultations, and opportunities for public presentation. Overall, the ACC Residencies aim to serve as catalysts for pioneering works that merge artistic creativity with technological innovation.

CCN Residency

Taean, South Korea

The CCN Residency, also known as Chungnam Artist Residency, is a government-run program established through a collaboration between Chungcheongnam-do Province and Hyundai City Corporation. Located in the enterprise city of Taean, near the scenic Yellow Sea and Bunamho Lake in South Korea, the residency provides a nature-friendly environment designed to inspire creativity. The residency supports visual artists by offering professional programs, individual studios, and opportunities for critical reviews, exhibitions, and international exchanges. CCN Residency also engages in global collaboration with art institutions, further expanding the creative reach of its resident artists. The architecture of the residency blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, offering a peaceful and inspiring space for artistic creation.

CICA

Gimpo-si, South Korea

The Czong Institute for Contemporary Art (CICA) is a distinctive cultural space and museum founded in 1994 in Gimpo-si, South Korea. Originating from an artist's studio, CICA has evolved over 25 years through the dedication of artists and their collective efforts. It offers an itinerant residency program that spans across Buenos Aires and Madrid, allowing artists to work in multiple ateliers. This program supports a wide range of disciplines, providing artists with studio space and the opportunity for solo exhibitions. CICA aims to decentralize contemporary art dissemination, introducing local artists and cultures to a global audience. Through collaborations with cities and educational institutions, CICA has established annual conferences and exhibitions that foster a global network among artists. The residency is designed for artists, curators, and cultural managers seeking immersive, collaborative experiences. CICA's initiatives reflect its commitment to nurturing creative practices and facilitating cultural exchanges.

Gapado AiR

Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea

Gapado Artist in Residence (Gapado AiR) is a distinctive cultural initiative located on the serene island of Gapado, South Korea. This residency provides a creative sanctuary for both domestic and international artists encompassing a wide array of art forms including visual arts, architecture, and literature. Artists are invited to immerse themselves in their work while engaging with the island’s unique ecological and cultural landscape, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and artistic expressions. The program's architecture, designed by Choi Wook, integrates seamlessly with the island’s topography, featuring underground facilities and a minimalistic observatory that complements the natural surroundings. Facilities for artists include a community lounge, individual studios, and private accommodation, all equipped with necessary amenities to support creative endeavors. Artists benefit from structured programs such as AiR Talk, Open Studios, and local community events, which enhance their creative processes and facilitate interactions with both the local community and the international art scene. The residency emphasizes sustainable cultural development and aims to establish Gapado as a new hub of creativity and cultural exchange.

Naughty Muse Studios

Busan, South Korea

Naughty Muse Studios in Busan, South Korea, offers a paid residency program for artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. Located near the popular Songjeong beach, the studio provides residents with access to well-equipped studio spaces and accommodation in self-contained apartments. The residency aims to foster creativity through self-directed exploration, collaboration, and community engagement, encouraging artists to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural landscape of Busan. Residency options are flexible, with durations ranging from two weeks to one month, and participants can utilize shared studio spaces and various tools such as an etching press and silkscreen facilities. Residents are responsible for their own materials and travel expenses, while workshops and critiques with local artists can be organized upon request. With a strong emphasis on cultural exchange, Naughty Muse Studios seeks to provide artists with the opportunity to engage with the local community and gain fresh perspectives on their artistic practice.

Oreum

Seogwipo, Jeju, South Korea

Oreum Residency is a 4-week program located in Seogwipo City, Jeju Island, South Korea, designed to support emerging artists from around the world. The residency fosters connections between international artists and local creatives, providing opportunities for artists to develop their work and showcase it in a final two-week exhibition. Hosted by Cedar Hill, a residential community, and co-organized by DiSilence Creative Agency and Zip Amsterdam, the residency accepts five domestic and five international artists under 35 years of age, focusing on visual arts such as drawing, painting, photography, and sculpture. Participants stay in a residential facility with private bedrooms and shared workspaces, with activities like guided local tours and studio visits enriching their experience. The program culminates in an exhibition where the artists can present their work to collectors, curators, and local art enthusiasts.

Toroo

Icheon, South Korea

The Toroo Atelier Learning Residency in Icheon, South Korea, offers an extended program for ceramic artists and students to deepen their skills in traditional Korean styles under master Kwak Kyungtae. Situated in a vibrant ceramic village, the residency provides a unique environment with a balance of structured instruction and self-guided practice. Participants receive personalized guidance and access to unlimited clay, tools, and a dedicated studio space. Accommodation is provided in Ye’s Park, within walking distance of the studio, and includes access to a shared kitchen. Daily schedules feature instruction in the morning and afternoon, with additional independent practice time. The program also includes Korean lunches, twice-weekly dinners, and beverages throughout the day. The residency is suitable for those with prior experience in clay and aims to foster both technical skills and creative exploration. For more details and application information, visit their website or contact them directly.