While the art scene for the world wasn’t rosy in 2024, Asia seemed to have a comparatively better year. Despite slowing markets, the optimism in Asian markets continues to attract more galleries and visitors.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong continued its dominance as the art hub of Asia this year as well. Following the trend, Christie’s and Sotheby’s (as well as Bonhams) opened new spaces in the city. The city also hosted a lot more auctions and fairs this year. However, the sales volume this year, particularly in the fall, was lower than both last year and earlier this year.

South Korea
Seoul did not enjoy a great year. Not much happened in the city until September, when Frieze Seoul was launched. This was accompanied by the Korea International Art Fair and other fairs in Gwangju and Busan. However, the footfall was visibly lower this year. There were fewer galleries represented and the collections failed to impress as well.

Japan
In 2024 Japan emerged as the surprise favorite of art lovers. At a time when footfall in South Korea and Hong Kong was reducing, the Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) came to the quick rescue. This was followed by Art Week Tokyo and Tokyo Gendai. What made Japan such a favorite was that it was different from the cookie-cutter art fairs and offered many other tourist destinations.
Mainland China
The year began optimistically for the country as a report revealed that the majority of the buyers of antique art, anywhere in the world, were Chinese. In all major events of South and Southeast Asia, Chinese collectors were towering figures. However, in the latter half of the year, their numbers dwindled as reports about a shaking Chinese economy became public.
Also Read: Art World In 2024: Part One
India
The dark horse of the Asian race was undoubtedly India. The rising economy of the South Asian country was clearly reflected in its art scene. The India Art Fair in February proved to be a decent success. In November, however, the 2nd edition of Art Mumbai proved to be a bigger success than anyone had anticipated.