The Amorepacific Museum of Art (APMA) is located on the first basement level of the Amorepacific headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul. Designed by British architect David Chipperfield, this 22-story white cube building is noted for its minimalist aesthetic and precise proportions. The museum, along with the ground-floor lounge, bookstore, and café, is publicly accessible, serving as a cultural hub within the corporate complex.

Chipperfield's design cleverly integrates natural light into the subterranean exhibition spaces through a large central rooftop garden. This, coupled with a refined material palette of stone, wood, and concrete, creates a serene and contemplative environment. The clear geometric forms of the galleries offer a focused and immersive art viewing experience, providing a quiet retreat in the bustling city.

A Legacy Collection — Spanning Korean Antiques and Global Contemporary Art

APMA's collection began with the lifelong passion of Amorepacific Group's founder, Suh Sung-whan, who dedicated over 50 years to acquiring both traditional Korean art and modern and contemporary works. This unique dual focus allows for distinctive curation, enabling visitors to encounter Goryeo celadon masterpieces alongside works by Western contemporary artists like Mark Rothko within the same visit.

The Korean antique collection, approximately 4,000 pieces, includes exquisite Goryeo celadon, Joseon white porcelain, and metal crafts, often presented through rotating special exhibitions. The contemporary holdings feature Mark Rothko's late grey-pearl series on permanent display, a rare opportunity in Korea. Additionally, a robust collection of Dansaekhwa (Korean monochrome painting) by first-generation artists such as Lee Ufan, Park Seo-bo, and Chung Sang-hwa is central to APMA's identity.

Dynamic Exhibitions and International Dialogue

APMA annually hosts two to three major temporary exhibitions, occupying the main gallery spaces. These feature solo presentations by renowned international artists such as Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, Olafur Eliasson, James Turrell, Barbara Kruger, Anne Imhof, and significant Korean artists like Jung Yeon-doo. These dynamic programs continuously explore diverse artistic expressions and foster international dialogue in contemporary art.

Visiting Information — Accessibility and Cultural Connections

APMA is highly accessible, just a 1-minute walk from Sinyongsan Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 & 4) Exit 1, and also near Yongsan Station (Line 1) Exit 4. Admission fees vary by exhibition (typically ₩15,000-₩20,000 for adults, some free). A visit usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours. The museum operates Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Visitors should check the official website for current schedules and exhibition details.

The museum is part of a rich cultural cluster in Yongsan, making it an ideal destination to combine with a visit to the nearby National Museum of Korea or the War Memorial of Korea, both within walking distance. APMA offers a profound artistic experience in the heart of Seoul.