Long-term foreign resident exhibits 50 years of photography in Korea

Long-time resident of Korea, American photographer Tom Coyner, is showcasing his extensive photographic work in his inaugural solo gallery exhibition. The showcase, held at KOTE Gallery in Seoul's Insa-dong district, will run from September 15th to 20th and feature fifteen framed prints, additional unframed prints available for purchase, as well as a significant collection of his photographs projected onto a large screen, all originating from the period of his arrival in 1975.

Coyner, who initially embarked on his Korean journey in August 1975, initially served as an English teacher in a rural middle school. He later devised an advanced English and American society course for the Ministry of Agriculture. During his two-year tenure, Coyner was consistently engaged in capturing images with his camera, chronicling temples, landscapes, and people alike.

Coyner reflected on his photographic endeavors, noting the difficulties of photographing temples, as people would often obstruct his shots, causing frustration. Nevertheless, he later recognized the value these overlooked people brought to the timeless temples.

In stark contrast to today's era, where almost everyone possesses a smartphone capable of taking high-quality photos, Coyner's photography from the 1970s relied on more traditional methods. His exhibition serves as a testament to the enduring power of photography and the unique perspective it offers.