in Frieze | 07 JAN 25

Frieze 91 Member Spotlight: Huny Lee aka Super Huny

in Frieze | 07 JAN 25

Introducing Huny Lee aka Super Huny who was born and raised in Seoul. With her magnetic charm, she connects people around Korea with her various circles around the world. As the founder of boutique travel agency JJIIMM and the CEO of Super International—where all businesses come together—she consistently delivers the most captivating and delightful experiences that Seoul has to offer.   

Hunhee Lee
Huny Lee aka Super Huny

1. Describe yourself in three words? 

Energizing, Explorer, Accelerator  

2. What’s your proudest moment? 

My proudest moments lie in bridging the rich art, culture, and people of South Korea with the world, introducing its essence to foreign audiences and witnessing their genuine appreciation and enjoyment.   

3. Art icon? 

Ha Chong-hyun, the master of Dansaekhwa, represents contemporary Korean art. The texture, brushwork, and colors on his canvases are incredibly beautiful. His "Conjunction" series showcases the essence of Korean contemporary art. I had the opportunity to visit his studio, and amidst dozens of his works, the scent of paint stirred something deep within me, and in that moment, it felt as if my heart opened, causing tears to flow.   

4. Hidden gem in your city? 

Jongmyo Shrine, located in Seoul, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and holds great cultural significance as the oldest and most well-preserved royal Confucian shrine in Korea. It enshrines the spirit tablets of Korea's past kings and queens, offering a serene and sacred atmosphere that feels truly special. The shrine is particularly appealing for a stroll during the hot summer months, as it is surrounded by beautiful trees. 

5. Favourite restaurant?  

Parc Seoul , Homemade Korean comfort food made with traditional mom's recipe. Simply & authentically, the best. 

6. Song you can listen to on repeat? 

NewJeans' ‘Ditto.’ Whether I'm in sorrow or joy, the melody of their voices and the rhythm of ‘Ditto’ have the magic to transform my mood, swiftly filling me with good energy. 

7. Exhibition you’re excited to see (or have seen)? 

In 2019, while I was in the UK, I first visited Yang Hye-Gyu's solo exhibition, Tracking Movement, at the South London Gallery. Since then, my interest in her work has continued to grow, leading me to the Latent Dwelling exhibition at Kukje Gallery's Hanok space in Korea in 2023. It left such a profound impression that it became deeply engraved in my memory, turning me into a true admirer of her art. In 2024, during my visit to Frieze London, I had the opportunity to experience her work on an even larger and more diverse scale at the Hayward Gallery, which was equally impressive. I always look forward to seeing where her artistic journey will take her next. 

8. A skill you’re working on mastering? 

I’m currently focused on mastering skiing. Twenty-two years ago, a snowboarding accident in Whistler, Canada, led me to step away from winter sports. However, my love for winter and my fearlessness toward it were reaffirmed when I snorkeled in the Silfra Fissure in Iceland at -12°C. Despite a back injury from skydiving in 2023, a torn meniscus in 2024, and a PCL reconstruction surgery on my leg in 1999, I have consistently worked to maintain my physical fitness and overall health. With global warming shortening our winters, I am determined to embrace and fully enjoy the natural pleasures each season offers.  

9. A memorable place? 

It was the Thorong La Pass in Nepal. In March 2022, to mark my birthday and overcome the deep depression I had been struggling with, I traveled alone to Nepal to embark on a journey of self-renewal. There, I trekked the Thorong La Pass, reaching an elevation of 5,416 meters—the highest ground I had ever ascended on my own two feet. Each day, with every step, I offered countless prayers, I embraced both the physical and emotional challenges of the journey. In the end, I emerged as a stronger and healthier version of myself. 

10. Favourite museum? 

I love Leeum Museum of Art, located in the heart of Seoul, just 10 minutes from my home. The museum showcases both world-renowned contemporary art and traditional Korean art, housed in an architecturally stunning space. Designed by renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas, the museum features a unique and harmonious architectural beauty. The art shop inside the museum is also a great place to find special gifts for friends or guests visiting Korea.   

11. Artist you’re currently thinking about?   

I am captivated by the works of artist Lee Jin-ju, who expresses time, space, and perspective through three-dimensional paintings.  

 

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