Why the British Museum rotates its Korean gallery collection to preserve ancient history.
In short: Curator Eleanor Soo-ah Hyun explains the dynamic process behind maintaining the British Museum's Korean gallery. Discover why these displays must change regularly to balance conservation needs with the search for contemporary pieces that resonate with ancient artifacts.
Managing a national collection is far from static. For Eleanor Soo-ah Hyun, who grew up in New York City, curating the British Museum’s Korean holdings involves a constant cycle of rotation. This process is essential for the physical preservation of delicate objects, which require periods of rest away from public display to ensure their longevity.
Beyond conservation, the gallery serves as a bridge between eras. Hyun describes the curatorial work as a scavenger hunt, seeking out modern items that create a dialogue with the museum's ancient Korean artifacts. This approach ensures the gallery remains a living space that reflects both historical depth and contemporary relevance.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Curating Korea at the British Museum I Curator’s Corner S1 Ep4 #CuratorsCorner
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