(WKIC Seoul Chapter) Visit to Lee Kyung-jun Photo Exhibition

On January 19th on a warm winter day, I visited the Groundseesaw Central for the Lee Kyung-jun photo exhibition. This was my first time at Groundseesaw Central, and just by looking at the building, I could sense Gangbuk has firmly established itself in the field of culture and arts. The modern and simple exterior, along with the aesthetically pleasing interior structure, gave me a deep impression and I felt a sense of pride in visiting a new hot spot in Gangbuk.

I entered without knowing much about the artist Lee Kyung-jun. Reading his profile at the entrance, I was taken by surprise. His profession as a physical therapist, starting photography as a hobby, and eventually holding his first solo exhibition in the center of Seoul—his journey fascinated me. I started exploring his photographs with much anticipation.

The title of the first section of Chapter 1 was 'Golden Hour, a Beautiful Gift of Light.' The artist captured moments when the monochrome buildings of New York City were bathed in the sunlight of the sunset. Some photos were so three-dimensional that it felt like the illuminated buildings were right in front of my eyes. For those who had been to New York City, the photos evoked a sense of longing. For those who hadn't, it was enough to spark excitement for the next vacation to New York.

Chapter 2 showcased various views of the rooftops of New York skyscrapers. The romantic scenes of New Yorkers enjoying tanning on sunbeds were completely different from our messy rooftops. It had a very enviable New York vibe.

Chapter 3, "Rest Stop," captured people enjoying Central Park in different seasons. Various scenes of people picnicking against the backdrop of the summer's deep blue sky and grass, making snow angels on a vast white snowfield, and enjoying Central Park in various ways seemed to reveal the meaning of Central Park for New Yorkers.

The final chapter, like the exhibition title "One Step Away," made me reflect on the idea that looking at our worries from a step back can make them feel lighter. The place encouraged a broader perspective, suggesting that as our vision expands, our hearts and the weight of life can also lighten. It included an experience where people could write their concerns, shred them in a tiny shredder, and reflect on their worries from a step back.

I went to the exhibition not so much to see the exhibits, but more to meet people whom I had longed to see but hadn't for a while. After spending over an hour with Lee Kyung-jun's work, it felt like I had taken a fantastic trip to New York.