National Museum of Korea, located in Seoul’s Yongsan district, is the largest and most prestigious museum in the country. The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts spanning prehistoric to modern eras, allowing visitors to take a deep exploration into Korea’s cultural heritage.

Each exhibition hall is thoughtfully designed to showcase relics with artistic sophistication, making the museum not only one of the most visually captivating in Korea but also a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Admission is free, so if you haven’t visited yet, take advantage of this indoor activity this winter!

THINGS TO KNOW

• Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul or Line 4 & Gyeongui Jungang Line. Ichon Station Exit 2, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sun.–Tue. & Thu.–Fri.) / 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Wed. & Sat.) / Outdoor exhibition area: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

• Admission: Free (Only special exhibitions require entry fee)

• Parking: Free for the first 20 minutes, then 2,000 won for the next 2 hours, and 500 won for every additional 30 minutes. (The parking lot is very spacious, but please note that there may be some waiting time for parking during peak hours on weekends.)

• Website

PERMANENT EXHIBITS

The museum’s permanent exhibits are on the first through third floors. Since admission is free, there’s no need to stop by the ticket booth. Simply enter the Exhibition Hall building and be sure to grab a guidebook.

Prehistory and ancient history

This hall displays relics from Korea’s earliest civilizations, from the Paleolithic Era (700,000 years ago) to the Three Kingdoms period and Unified Silla. It highlights the evolution of human life on the Korean Peninsula, from the use of stone tools to the development of the rich cultures of the ancient kingdoms.

Medieval and early modern history

This section covers Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897) and Korean Empire (1897-1910) and features historical and cultural artifacts that highlight the significant events, conflicts and achievements during these eras.

Room of Quiet Contemplation

Room of Quiet Contemplation is one of the museum’s most interesting exhibits, featuring two Pensive Bodhisattva statues, both designated as National Treasures of Korea. These masterpieces capture the bodhisattvas deep in contemplation with a mysterious smile, reflecting on the cycle of birth, aging, illness and death.

Created in the late 6th and early 7th centuries, the statues were crafted using the advanced casting techniques of the period. This tranquil space invites visitors to pause and reflect, offering a peaceful moment of connection with these iconic figures.

Calligraphy and painting

The gallery features Korean traditional paintings and calligraphy expressed through distinctive brush techniques and colors.

Sculpture and crafts

This hall displays the finest examples of Korean Buddhist sculpture and craftsmanship, offering prime examples of the country’s Buncheong ware, white porcelain, celadon, metalwork and sacred art traditions.

World Art

This exhibition presents a collection of the art and cultural heritage across diverse regions including Central Asia, India, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and ancient Greece-Rome.

MORE THAN JUST A MUSEUM

Outdoor garden

The vast gardens have waterfalls and scenic views for a perfect stroll to enjoy nature and the museum’s outdoor exhibits, including ancient stone pagodas. National Museum of Korea’s outdoor area is known as one of Seoul’s best photo spots because of its unobstructed view of the iconic N Seoul Tower. The gardens are also surrounded by Yongsan Family Park, creating a perfect urban oasis. Along the way, visitors will also find Hangul (Korean language) Museum.

National Museum goods store

Don’t forget to stop at the gift shops inside the museum. The large variety of items inspired by exhibits and national treasures is why the museum’s shops are often praised as the best souvenir shop in Korea.

The museum’s merchandise has become so popular that many visitors come to the museum to specifically visit the shop. The museum also operates an online goods shop, but some products are only available at the store on site.

• Online store

Children’s Museum

Kids will love the interactive displays at National Museum of Korea Children’s Museum. Tiny visitors can see, touch and explore replicas of significant artifacts displayed in the permanent exhibition halls. Popular among parents, the museum functions like an educational kids’ café, offering a fun and engaging environment for children to develop an interest in Korean history and cultural heritage. Through various hands-on exhibits and educational programs, children can learn about the lives and wisdom of people from the past.

Reservation required

Please note that reservations are required to visit the Children’s Museum. The museum accommodates up to 200 visitors per session with five sessions daily. Online reservations open at midnight 14 days prior to the visit date. Reservations can be made on the day of your visit but to secure a spot, it’s recommended to make a reservation at least a day in advance. Visit the website and simply sign up and log in to make a reservation. All you need is an email address, and a Korean phone number is not required if you don’t have one.

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 5:50 p.m. (Closed on holidays)

• Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Admission: Free

• Booking

USAG Yongsan

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