SEOUL, South Korea – The Department of Intellectual Property has advanced Thai creative industries on the global stage, generating over 100 million baht in economic value through the “ART UNIVERSE” project and the Kiaf SEOUL 2026 art fair. DIP Director-General Auramon Supthaweethum stated that the initiative supports Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun’s policy to commercialize intellectual property and enter new markets. In partnership with the Office of SMEs Promotion and other agencies, the department organized a domestic exhibition in August.
The event featured over 300 works by national masters such as Chakrabhand Posayakrit, Thawan Duchanee, and Tawee Ratchaneekorn, as well as leading contemporary artists including Molly, MACKCHA, KARMS, and SUNTUR. The platform connected creators with investors and offered essential training in intellectual property management. The project expanded internationally at Kiaf SEOUL 2026 in South Korea from September 2 to 6, 2026.
The fair gave Thai artists valuable global exposure and networking opportunities. Thai artworks attracted strong interest from international collectors, with notable sales including Nisa Srikumdee’s “BETTER BOAT” at 1.6 million baht and Wisut Ponnimit’s “Score Changes, Love Doesn’t” at 1.5 million baht. Works by Thammathat Saithong and Widsanupong Noonan also sold well, highlighting the international demand and commercial potential of Thai creative assets.
The Director-General noted that these achievements demonstrate the effectiveness of the “Art to Asset” concept, which helps creators manage their work as valuable intellectual property. The department will continue to support the creative sector by protecting rights, providing advisory services, and facilitating business connections to promote sustainable economic growth for Thai artists. (NNT)
