Seoul, South Korea – As more people express dissatisfaction with the overwhelming nature of platforms like Instagram and YouTube, artist Song Yehwhan offers a thought-provoking critique of our increasingly digital existence.

In her latest exhibition, "The Internet Barnacles," currently on display at Ji Gallery in Seoul, Song delves into the complexities of our online lives. Through intricate installations made from thousands of cardboard pieces and projected imagery, she visualizes the ways in which we become attached to digital platforms, much like barnacles cling to a ship’s hull.

Song's works, such as "The Barnacles" and "The Whirlpool," depict the digital ecosystem as a complex and often overwhelming environment. The artist, who has a background in web design, argues that while we enjoy unprecedented access to information, we are simultaneously trapped within a system controlled by large tech corporations.

"Surfers can no longer surf," Song explains. "We've become so accustomed to curated feeds and targeted advertisements that we've lost our sense of agency."

The exhibition, which runs until February 15, has garnered significant attention for its timely exploration of issues such as algorithmic control, data privacy, and the impact of big tech on our daily lives.

Song, who is based in New York, has been making waves in the art world with her works that challenge the conventions of web design and online platforms. By creating intricate installations that mimic the digital landscape, she invites viewers to question their relationship with technology.

"In the U.S., there's a growing discourse around the negative impacts of big tech, but I feel like these issues aren't as widely discussed in Korea," Song says. "The internet experience is different in different countries. For example, in many Asian countries, you have to use English to access the internet. These kinds of restrictions shape our online experiences in significant ways."

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