Inside Swarovski's Star-Studded Masters of Light Exhibition Event in Seoul
From South Korean ambassador LE SSERAFIM's Chaewon and IVE's Rei to actors like Hwang In-youp and Glenn Yong, the guest list is just as glittering as the exhibition.
On October 17th, Swarovski made a dazzling entrance into Seoul's vibrant cultural scene, hosting an exclusive celebration to mark the arrival of its landmark traveling exhibition, Swarovski - Masters of Light from Vienna to Seoul. Held at XYZ Seoul in the trendy Seongsu district, the event drew a glittering crowd of stars, blending the Austrian House’s rich heritage with the contemporary energy of K-pop.
Among the A-list attendees was Swarovski’s local ambassador, Kim Chaewon of global K-pop powerhouse LE SSERAFIM, alongside ZEROBASEONE's Sung Hanbin, actor Hwang In-Youp, and Thai star Blue Pongtiwat. All were styled in Swarovski creations, adding an extra layer of sparkle to the already luminous occasion.
The event kicked off with an intimate pre-party tour of the exhibition, conceptualized by Swarovski’s Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert. Through seven carefully curated “Chambers of Wonder,” Masters of Light traces Swarovski’s 130-year journey from its beginnings in 19th-century Vienna to its current cultural relevance in fashion, pop culture, and music. This celebration of Swarovski's crystal mastery perfectly aligns with Seoul’s reputation as the global capital of K-pop and youth culture, making it a fitting venue for the exhibition’s next stop.
The immersive exhibition takes visitors on a visually stunning journey, beginning with Swarovski’s origins and leading up to its influence on modern pop icons. Particularly dazzling is the Pop Icon Chamber, which features a range of stage costumes and red-carpet looks worn by global superstars like Harry Styles and Rihanna. Standing out among these are custom stage outfits from LE SSERAFIM’s "CRAZY" music video. Designed in collaboration with Swarovski, these pieces shimmer with intricate crystal embellishments that catch the light with every movement of the group’s high-energy choreography.
Another highlight for K-pop fans is the display of crystal-adorned microphones used by LE SSERAFIM during their recent performance at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards. Each microphone, encrusted with 24,000 Swarovski crystals, was uniquely designed by the group’s members, reflecting their individual styles and preferences. The customized designs demonstrate Swarovski’s continued relevance in blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary music and fashion culture.
At the Future History Chamber, fashion enthusiasts will marvel at the exhibition’s exceptional selection of ten custom masterpieces from renowned fashion houses, including Louis Vuitton, Alexander McQueen, and Armani. Each piece demonstrates the intricate craftsmanship behind crystal embellishments, woven into the fabric of couture creations with painstaking precision. These showpieces stand as a testament to Swarovski’s long-standing partnerships with the world’s top designers and its influence in the realm of high fashion.
Adding to the grandeur is the Swarovski Created Diamonds Galaxy Collection, featuring exquisite laboratory-grown diamonds, alongside the brand’s statement jewellery and figurines. For crystal lovers, the exhibition’s pièce de résistance may well be the largest crystal chaton ever created, providing a breathtaking focal point that encapsulates Swarovski’s legacy of innovation and craftsmanship.
Opening to the public from October 18 until October 30, the Masters of Light exhibition is free to attend, offering visitors a rare chance to explore the storied history and modern glamour of Swarovski. As Seoul continues to cement its status as a cultural and fashion capital, the exhibition not only celebrates Swarovski’s heritage but also pays homage to its ongoing dialogue with the world of K-pop and global pop culture.
To register for tickets, go to Swarovski's Kakao channel here.
