Raquel Portillo is an art curator and cultural producer based in Seoul, founder of Sai Curated.

Having worked across different cultural contexts and art institutions, my practice centers on questions of otherness. The tension between familiarity and distance has led me to consider how cultural expressions can feel intuitively accessible while remaining historically and socially specific. My work focuses on how exhibitions and institutions mediate encounters with cultural difference without reducing its complexity.

The Korean word sa-i (사이) refers to a space in between. In Korean cultural thought, a sense of connection or belonging can emerge within this in-between space (사이에서 생기는 정). Sai Curated is born from the desire to study, understand, and nurture this sense of belonging that arises through encounters between familiarity and distance, and through the openness to engage with otherness.

I hold Bachelor’s degrees in Art History and in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, as well as a Master’s degree in International Cooperation. My academic background and professional trajectory have given me the oportunity to work closely with renowned artists, and led me to engage closely with the contemporary art scene in South Korea, where my curatorial practice continues to develop.

Partnerships

2026 Honorary Supporter at MMCA
(National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Korea)

2024-2025 Art Guide in Seoul at FIP

2020 - 2023 Contributing writer at HA!

Supporters Opening Ceremony at MMCA 2026 

Artist Shin Min during installation of “Tactics for an Era“ at K&L Museum, 2025

K&L Museum team with Ann-Kristin Hamm’s family at her solo exhibition opening, 2025 

Artist Mari Ito during installation of her solo show at Villa del Arte, 2023

Installation of a Montse Valdés artwork for a private client, 2022

Past Experiences

K&L MUSEUM

Gwacheon, South Korea

KOTE INSADONG

Seoul, South Korea

VILLA DEL ARTE

Barcelona, Spain

  • "Raquel's work ethic is truly commendable. She is diligent, positive and possesses a unique character that inspires trust. Raquel approaches her responsibilities with warmth and honesty, consistently delivering efficiency and initiative."

    — Julie Ahn, CEO of KOTE Insadong

  • "Raquel approached her responsibilities with remarkable diligence and precision, ensuring all tasks were completed to the highest standard. She is someone who takes her work seriously and consistently delivers excellent results."

    — Lina Kim, Director of K&L Museum

  • "She independently identified and analyzed areas for improvement and worked proactively to address them. Raquel demonstrated initiative in solving problems, a strong sense of responsibility and diligence, and a deep understanding of the art field, which greatly benefited both her colleagues and the museum."

    - Lee Jonggun, Manager at K&L Museum