Korean Artist, Jung Yeondoo: The Coexistence of Reality and Fantasy

This research theorizes a new type of "quantum deformation of reality" and argue that it can embrace the coexistence of reality and virtuality. It also proposes how contemporary artists express the human condition, in particular, empathy with others while using virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and multiple reality (MR). I borrowed the term, quantum deformation from mathematics and physics. I apply this term to contemporary art, focusing on one Korean artist, Jung Yeondoo (b. 1969). This Korean multimedia artist approaches reality and fantasy in his influential works in media art. Jung creates art based on as understanding that art and science and seeks to answer the same question and that art values communication among people and with society. By applying the quantum deformation of reality, Jung's works – expressing juxtaposition of reality and illusion, the past and the present, the present and the future, the private and public sectors, and genuineness and artificiality – form a connection between people and evoke greater empathy. In addition, this paper seeks to explore how contemporary artists bring their works to the public and to propose a better solution for how artworks can be distributed, experienced, resonated and interpreted in the global world. It is Jung's ultimate desire for us to empathize with those around us, which he makes possible by pursuing not only direct connection with people but also through the use of art and science. This universal and interdisciplinary discourse enriches the language of global contemporary art.