Parkimism

Parkimism is a contemporary cultural movement that emerged in South Korea during the early 2010s. The term combines the Korean surname Park with the suffix "-ism," and it was first used by the artist Park Im-hee, who began exhibiting works that blended traditional Korean motifs with modern digital media. The movement has since grown beyond visual art to influence architecture, literature, fashion and urban planning.

At its core, Parkimism emphasizes the harmonious coexistence of heritage and innovation. Practitioners seek to reinterpret classic Korean aesthetics—such as ondol heating, hanji paper, and traditional garden layouts—through cutting‑edge technologies like LED lighting, virtual reality and smart‑buildings. Key tenets include a reverence for ancestral narratives, an openness to cross‑cultural dialogue, and an emphasis on sustainability. By marrying the quiet, contemplative aspects of Korean cultural history with the dynamic energy of urban life, Parkimism invites viewers and residents to experience a sense of continuity amid rapid modernization.

The movement has visibly impacted Seoul’s urban development. Projects such as the “Seoul Heritage Tower,” designed by architect Myung‑Sae Choi, incorporate traditional paper screening panels into a glass façade, while the “Digital Hanok District” in Gangnam features interactive installations that teach visitors the history of hanok houses. In literature, writers like Park Im‑jun publish short story collections that weave folklore into contemporary settings, and fashion houses such as Kora Seoul incorporate traditional hanbok elements into their avant‑garde collections.

Academic studies of Parkimism appear in Korean universities’ art history, design, and cultural studies departments. Scholars debate whether the movement represents authentic cultural evolution or a trend of commodifying tradition. Despite differing opinions, Parkimism remains a compelling example of how new artistic movements can bridge past and present, and its influence continues to be felt across South Korea’s cultural landscape.