Short Description:
The Busan Biennale has showcased a variety of contemporary international art trends over the past four decades while also highlighting Busan’s history and its evolving urban landscape. Since its inception in 1981 as the Pusan Youth Biennale, it has become a distinctive platform connecting local and global art. Over the years, artistic directors from around the world have contributed to the Busan Biennale, generating meaningful narratives and discussions.
To enhance Busan’s artistic value as a “Global Cultural Hub City” and to spearhead future-oriented exhibitions, we are excited to announce an open call for the position of Artistic Director for the Busan Biennale 2026. We invite candidates with a deep understanding of contemporary art and exhibitions, a compelling creative vision, and substantial curatorial experience to apply.
Requirements
- Plan and execute an exhibition that aligns with the goals and vision of the Busan Biennale 2026.
- Possess a deep understanding and expertise in contemporary art, with experience in exhibitions or related curatorial fields.
- Demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively with local artists based in Busan.
- Contribute to the global networking efforts of the Busan Biennale.
- Maintain smooth internal and external communication and coordination, according to the Committee’s regulations.
- Visit and stay in Korea (Busan) for a designated period to ensure the preparation and operation of the exhibition; additional consultation may be necessary during unforeseen circumstances, such as epidemics.
Major Roles and Responsibilities
4.1. Overall management of the exhibition
- Establish the exhibition theme and curatorial plan
- Organize the project budget
- Select artists and artworks, oversee artwork production and installation
- Plan and implement exhibition-related programs
4.2. General duties related to PR and sponsorship
4.3. Any other responsibilities assigned to the Artistic Director as specified in the contract
*The exhibition will be implemented in collaboration with the Exhibition Team of the Committee.
Application Requirements:
*The application form must be submitted in MS Word format (.doc, .docx)
5.3. How to Submit: Please email the completed application form to apply@busanbiennale.org
*The file name must include the applicant’s name.
5.4. How to Fill Out the Application
- Follow the instructions provided in the application form.
- Additional materials beyond the required documents will not be reviewed or considered.
5.5. Selection Procedures
- Application Review: June 2 – 11, 2025
- Announcement of the Shortlisted Candidates for Interviews: By Thursday, June 12, 2025
- Interviews: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
*Consecutive interpretation will be provided during the interview.
*Please note that the interview schedule is subject to change under certain circumstances.
Eligibility:
We seek the active participation of the curators who are ready to open a new chapter in the history of the Sea Art Festival.
○ Someone who agrees with the direction of the Sea Art Festival 2025 and is capable of implementing a new exhibition based on an understanding of Busan and the Sea Art Festival
○ An understanding of and expertise in contemporary art and experience in a variety of exhibitions and/or curatorial work
○ Novel and experimental exhibition plan that can engage citizens and excellent exhibition and space planning
○ Contributions to the international networking of the Busan Biennale Organizing Committee
○ Capability to carry out smooth communication both internally and externally in accordance with the policy of the Committee
○ Visit to and stay in Korea (Busan) for a certain period to ensure the smooth operation of the exhibition (in the event of force majeure, including contagion, additional consultation will be made)
Program Benefits or Awards:
- Number of Positions Available: One person or one team from either a domestic or international background
- Employment Type: Non-full-time
- Contract Term: Until December 2026
Project Budget: Approx. KRW 800,000,000 ※ Please note that the budget is subject to change
– Honorarium for the artistic director and exhibition team members, artist fee, artwork production, installation expenses, travel expenses for artists and artistic director, exhibition operation expense and labor costs, public program expenses, general operating expenses, and miscellaneous expenses are included.
– The above budget does not include PR/Marketing expenses.
Entry Fee: none
Location: South Korea
Deadline: May 31, 2025
Website link: http://www.busanbiennale.org/BBOCen
