What was Korean art like 600 years ago? A time journey to National Museum of Korea in Seoul

(Credit: National Museum of Korea)

The creativity and sophistication of Korean art, now beloved worldwide, have deep roots in the past. If you want to glimpse a scene from that history, don’t miss the special exhibition “Art of Early Joseon: Masterpieces from the 15th and 16th Centuries” at the National Museum of Korea. This exhibition showcases approximately 400 pieces of Korean ceramics, pieces of calligraphy and painting, and Buddhist artworks from the 15th–16th century, from June 10 to August 31.

A visitor is enjoying displayed potteries

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With the founding of the Joseon dynasty in 1392, Korean art underwent a profound transformation. The exhibition highlights this artistic change by featuring three major genres: pure white porcelain Moon Jars that embody the quintessence of state-led ceramic industry; ink-wash landscape paintings that reflect the ideology of the Confucian literati; and golden-hued Buddhist artworks that offer comfort to people across all walks of life. Together, these works illuminate how early Joseon artists responded to their times through diverse media.

This exhibition is particularly special as it features approximately 80 designated National Treasures and Treasures, along with more than 40 pieces from overseas collections. Among them are 23 works being unveiled in Korea for the first time, drawing keen interest from both domestic and international visitors.

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If you’ve ever wanted to trace the footsteps of Korean art through time, this is your chance to see how its legacy began.

Event: Art of Early Joseon: Masterpieces from the 15th and 16th Centuries
Date: June 10 (Tue), 2025–August 31 (Sun), 2025 *Closed on July 21 (Mon) and Aug 4 (Mon)
Location: Special Exhibition Gallery I, National Museum of Korea
Viewing hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun 10:00–18:00 / Wed, Sat 10:00–21:00
Admission fee: Required (Free admission from June 10 to June 15)
Inquiries: +82-2-2077-9000