Seoul: The Galleries Art Fair, also known as the Hwarang Art Fair, concluded its five-day event this past weekend, attracting approximately 50,000 visitors, as reported by the organizers on Monday. A significant observation this year was the increase in attendance by younger individuals and families, who were particularly interested in acquiring artworks priced in the low- to mid-range categories.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the event saw notable sales, including an oil painting by figurative painter Lee Moka, sold within the 200 million-won (US$134,600) range by the Jason Haam gallery. Kukje Gallery reported the sale of a work by Julian Opie for about 90 million won and a sculpture by Kim Yun-shin for roughly 40 million won. Additionally, Concreate Gallery sold three sculptures by Kug Kyung-oh, totaling 80 million won. Organizers highlighted a broader consumer base this year, with strong sales of lower- to mid-range artworks, despite what they termed a "cautious buying trend."

The annual event, hosted at the COEX exhibition center in southern Seoul from April 8-12, set a new record with participation from 169 member galleries. Established in 1979, the Galleries Art Fair holds the distinction of being the first event of its kind in South Korea and has consistently reflected the evolving trends of the country's art market.