Centre Pompidou’s Seoul branch debuts with major Cubism show

French Centre Pompidou’s long-awaited Seoul branch will open its doors on June 4 with a sweeping exhibition on Cubism, marking a new chapter in the French institution’s global expansion and the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and France. Located next to the Han River, Centre Pompidou Hanwha is the latest addition to the French institution’s global satellite venues already in France, Spain, Belgium and Shanghai. At a press preview Tuesday, Hanwha Foundation of Culture Chairman Lee Sung-soo said the museum opening is the result of “several years of preparation” to bring a world-class modern art institution to Seoul. Marking the 140th anniversary of Korea‑France diplomatic relations, he framed the project as “another major cultural and artistic landmark in Seoul,” adding that the Seoul venue aims to showcase Korean arts on a global stage. Laurent Le Bon, president of Centre Pompidou, mirrored Lee’s view. “This project grows out of a deep Franco-Korean friendship, which now spans 140 years. We are celebrating that anniversary as this magnificent building open