'Massacre in Korea' Heads to Korea

Regarded as the most genius painter of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso's "Massacre in Korea" will for the first time be exhibited in Korea. Director of the National Museum of Contemporary Art Korea, Kim Yoon-su said "We received the chance to show 'Massacre in Korea' at the 'Peace' exhibition scheduled in June at the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwachon."

The painting, which is currently displayed at the Musée Picasso in Paris, was done after Picasso receiving news of a massacre against innocent people during the Korean War. The painting clearly shows Picasso's political inclination as a French communist, along with "Guernica" which is based on the Spanish Civil War. "Guernica" appeared at a memorial gathering remembering those citizens who were sacrificed during the Soviet Union's invasion to Hungary.

Kim said, "I met with former French Foreign Minister Dominique De Vellepin in Paris last March and requested that the painting to be exhibited in Korea. The Minister sympathized with the theme of the exhibition and gave permission with delight," and explained the process.

Another work of Picasso, "Joy of Life" will also come to Korea. Kim personally selected the artists and works for the coming exhibition. Art pieces by 100 Korean and foreign artists will be displayed under an anti-war and peace theme.