Frieze Connect Member Spotlight: Sungjoon Chae

Sungjoon Chae is the co-founder of Grün Dot, a company based in Seoul, Los Angeles, and New York, dedicated to sustainable urbanism and architecture. He is also the CEO of SPOA (Shin Pyong Organization for Architecture). As an urban designer and creative thinker, he is passionate about creating spaces and experiences that bring people together. Sungjoon’s work bridges creativity and human connection, focusing on meaningful design that inspires lasting interactions. For him, design always starts and ends with people. 

1. Describe yourself in three words?  

Positive, Pioneer, Urban Designer. 

2. What’s your proudest moment?  

My proudest moment is when the spaces and buildings I’ve envisioned are brought to life and become vibrant places filled with people. 

3.  Art icon?  

Mies Van Der Rohe. His minimalist philosophy and timeless approach to architecture continue to inspire my work. 

4. Hidden gem in your city?   

Jongmyo – it’s one of my favorite places in Seoul. Jongmyo is a royal shrine where the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty are honored. What makes it special is the calm and peaceful atmosphere, even though it’s right in the heart of the busy city. The architecture is very elegant and understated – not flashy, but beautifully balanced and deeply meaningful. The entire site feels harmonious, with quiet forest paths surrounding the shrines. You really get a strong sense of history and tradition there. 

5. Favourite restaurant?   

Cesta in Seoul – amazing food, great wine, and a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back. 

6. Song you can listen to on repeat?  

I’m not really the type to repeat one song – I like keeping my playlist fresh! 

7. Exhibition you’re excited to see (or have seen)?  

I had the chance to visit the Le Corbusier exhibition at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi, Tokyo. Seeing his architectural philosophy and designs up close was truly inspiring – it gave me a deeper appreciation for his vision of modern architecture. 

8. A skill you’re working on mastering?  

I’ve been getting into photography. I want to capture moments and places in a way that reflects how I actually experienced them – capturing not just the image, but the feeling of the moment.  

9. A memorable place?  

Crown Hall, designed by Mies van der Rohe, is where I first began my journey in architecture. It holds a special place in my heart, as it marked the beginning of my architectural path. 

10. Favourite museum?  

The Modern Wing by Renzo Piano in Chicago. It's a stunning space that beautifully blends architecture and art. 

11. Artist you’re currently thinking about?  

Kwangho Lee, a Korean artist and designer, has been on my mind lately. His approach to creating furniture and lighting from everyday materials, combining traditional crafts with modern design, is incredibly inspiring.