Biography
Jung Yong Chaing
b. 1943, Seoul, Korea
Early Life
Seoul, Korea
Born in 1943 in Seoul, Korea, Jung Yong Chaing demonstrated an early affinity for the arts. His journey into sculpture began at Seoul National University, where he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
As a university student, Chaing was selected to be part of the prestigious team led by renowned artist and professor Kim Se Joong. Together, they created the monumental Admiral Yi Soon Shin statue that still stands proudly in Gwanghwamun Plaza, Seoul, Korea — completed in 1968.
This early experience working on such a significant public monument would set the foundation for his lifelong dedication to bronze sculpture and large-scale public art.
Career in America
Los Angeles
After establishing himself in Korea, Chaing moved to the United States where he continued to develop his craft. He exhibited regularly with Koplin Gallery, one of Los Angeles' most respected contemporary art venues.
His mastery of bronze casting led to a significant collaboration with acclaimed American sculptor Robert Graham. Together, they worked on several landmark public monuments that would define American civic art.
Through decades of dedicated work, Chaing has established Chaing's Art Studio as a center for both bronze sculpture and painting, continuing to create works that bridge Eastern and Western artistic traditions.
At the LA Art Show with Koplin Gallery
Notable Commissions
Major Works with Robert Graham
Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial
Washington D.C. · The Prologue Room
The FDR Memorial's Prologue Room features a bronze statue of President Roosevelt that welcomes visitors to this national monument. Chaing's contribution to this significant work helped establish him as a master of monumental bronze sculpture.
The Great Bronze Doors
Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels · Los Angeles
Completed in 2002, these monumental bronze doors serve as the main entrance to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels. The doors represent one of the most significant religious artworks in modern Los Angeles, combining traditional bronze casting techniques with contemporary artistic vision.
Olympic Gateway Sculptures
LA Memorial Coliseum
The Olympic Gateway sculptures at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum celebrate the spirit of athletic achievement. These bronze figures have become iconic symbols of Los Angeles' Olympic heritage and continue to inspire visitors to this historic venue.