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Lee Ufan (1936, in Haman County, South Gyeongsang Province, Korea) is a Korean artist, philosopher, and writer, recognized for his significant role in Mono-ha, a Japanese art movement that emerged in the late 1960s. His work focuses on the relationship between materials, space, and perception, emphasizing minimal intervention in the objects he uses. In 1956, Lee moved to Japan, where he studied philosophy at Nihon University in Tokyo. His philosophical background shaped his artistic approach, leading him to explore the interactions between natural and industrial materials. His work often highlights the presence of objects within their surrounding environment, rather than altering them, a key concept in Mono-ha. Lee works across multiple disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and theoretical writing. His paintings frequently feature gestural brushstrokes on monochrome backgrounds, reflecting a meditative and restrained aesthetic. His sculptures, often made from raw stone and steel, create a dialogue between natural and man-made elements, encouraging viewers to consider their own spatial awareness in relation to the artwork. His influence extends beyond Japan and Korea, with exhibitions in museums and galleries worldwide, including major retrospectives at institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Lee’s approach to art continues to inspire discussions on minimalism, materiality, and the philosophical dimensions of artistic expression.