Two seated figures

Sookeun's work was widely appreciated by Americans stationed in Seoul during the 1960s. Now it is prized by Korean collectors and museums as well. The Bando Gallery at the Choson Hotel began exhibiting his paintings in 1965, selling them for a nominal sum to clients who were predominantly Americans.

During the past ten years since Christie's, New York, began selling his work, he has become the most sought-after modern Korean master.