MEDEL GALLERY SHU is pleased to present a solo exhibition by LEE JUNG MIN from May 9 (Fri) to May 21 (Wed). This marks the final chapter of Emergent Waves of Korea, a special exhibition series curated by Gallery VINCI, a contemporary gallery based in Korea, showcasing some of the country’s most exciting emerging artists. The series consists of five parts: two group exhibitions titled The Rising Tide of Korean Artistry and three solo exhibitions featuring KWON NI EUN, AHN MI YEUN, and LEE JUNG MIN.

At the heart of LEE JUNG MIN’s work are her beloved cats — Doongdoong, Kongkong, and Bonbon — who serve as the central characters in her paintings. These cats, lovingly observed and depicted with warmth and dynamism, are seen enjoying peaceful days and playful activities. Each cat has a unique origin to its name: Doongdoong comes from “Offa Doongdoong,” Kongkong from “Sky Kongkong,” and Bonbon takes inspiration from the French word for “candy.” The artist describes her bond with them as a familial relationship rather than one of owner and pet, sharing that she came to deeply value the time they spend together.

While her early works often depicted the artist alongside her cats, her recent works have shifted focus to portray the cats as independent protagonists, inhabiting worlds of their own. Doongdoong, Kongkong, and Bonbon are no longer merely pets but fully-fledged subjects with agency. This artistic approach sets LEE JUNH MIN apart from traditional portrayals of cats in art history — from the Egyptian goddess Bastet, to the feline companions in the works of Joseon-era artists Kim Deuk-sin and Byeon Sang-byeok, and even to the impressionist paintings of Auguste Renoir and Édouard Manet, where cats primarily existed in relation to humans. In contrast, LEE’s cats live freely in their own realms.

This exhibition, titled I’m feline Good, marks her second show in Tokyo. In it, Bonbon can be seen playing tennis, going to the pool, enjoying cherry blossoms, and fishing — spending serene days with siblings Doongdoong and Kongkong. LEE JUNG MIN’s distinct visual sensibility and delicate emotional expression gently move viewers through these charming daily scenes.

Her artistic process captures everyday moments through a unique lens, infusing ordinary life with vibrancy and tenderness. Through I’m feline Good, she shares a sense of positivity and lightness with her audience.

This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to witness the artistic evolution and creative depth of LEE JUNG MIN, an artist whose warm and joyful works — born from the tender bond between humans and cats — continue to resonate with audiences in Japan following her successful solo exhibition at Hillside Forum last year.

Come and experience the heartwarming world reflected through these delightful scenes of feline life.