The custom of exchanging paintings at the turn of the year, much like New Year’s greeting, is known as Sehwa (New Year’s Painting). Traditionally, these works depicted the Ten Symbols of Longevity, including the sun, moon, mountains, water, rocks, pine trees, cranes, turtles, deer, and clouds, and were exchanged as wishes for good health and well-being.
It is said that every household treasured it as an auspicious painting symbolizing wishes for good health for the sick, valuing it more than power or wealth. From January 3 to February 27, 2026, Samsung Medical Center presents Where the Ten Symbols of Longevity Stay, a special exhibition by artist Baek Seon, at the SMC Care Gallery on the first floor of the annex building.
Prepared as the first exhibition of the new year, it reflects the hope that many people will recover quickly and that Samsung Medical Center will become a place where the Ten Symbols of Longevity reside.
In this exhibition, artist Baek Seon vividly portrays the traditional Korean folk painting Ten Symbols of Longevity in a modern aesthetic through the use of geometric shapes and a rich variety of colors. Artist Baek Seon said, “The Ten Symbols of Longevity represent our traditional culture and good fortune,” adding, “I hope that everyone will enjoy good health through the energy of the Ten Symbols of Longevity.”
Since 2018, Samsung Medical Center has used the SMC Care Gallery, an arts and culture communication space, to bring joy and hope to patients, caregivers, and staff.