Held in uneven numbered years (2011, 2013, etc.), the Gwangju Design Biennale is held to explore the identity and originality of Korean design and present new artistic concepts to the world design industry. During the festival, designers present their reinterpretation and future vision of Korean culture through cutting-edge products and the latest fashion trends.

The official theme of the 2011 Gwangju Design Biennale is "Design is not design [圖可圖非常圖]," inspired by the opening passage of Tao Te Ching (道德經) by Lao-tzu. Pieces at the art show aim to express traditional Asian values, describe the changes in popular Korean culture, and show each artist’s vision for Korea’s future. The underlying theme of the show is “도 / do” (圖) from 그림 도 (geurim do / pictures), which is similar in sound to the Italian word “disegno” and the French word “dessin.” The themes highlight the fact that design is more than just a “pretty picture.” It is a living creation that crosses time and space and takes on a life of its own.