National Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korea showing heritage elements and interior views as well as a small group of people
National Museum of Korea
National Museum of Korea featuring interior views as well as a small group of people
National Museum of Korea showing interior views as well as a small group of people
National Museum of Korea featuring interior views and heritage elements


Marvel as natural light illuminates the galleries of this contemporary museum building, which houses thousands of ancient and valuable Korean objects. 

Explore Korea’s arts, ancient history, ethnology and religion in one spot at the National Museum of Korea. Spread across multiple floors and six permanent exhibition areas are 12,000 artifacts taken from a catalog of pieces. The National Museum of Korea dates back to 1945, when Korea regained independence from Japan. Originally housed in the Gyeongbokyong Palace, it moved to its current modern location in 2005.

Start your visit in the Prehistory and Ancient History gallery to learn about some of the earliest civilizations to inhabit Korean lands. Get an in-depth overview of the Goryeo Dynasty, Joseon Dynasty and Korean Empire in the Medieval and Early Modern History gallery. Kids can enjoy replicating traditional art forms and lifestyles in the Children’s Museum.

On the second floor is the fascinating Calligraphy and Painting gallery. Highlights include Buddhist paintings from the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties and works by members of the Dohwaseo royal academy. Browse exhibitions of ceramics, earthenware, paintings and sculptures donated by wealthy benefactors.

Artworks from various Asian nations decorate the third floor. These include exquisite statues of Buddha and treasures from a 14th-century merchant ship that foundered off the Sinan coast. See pieces from Southern Asian countries including Cambodia, India, Nepal and Vietnam.

In addition to the treasures inside, the superb outdoor exposition space has pagodas, shrines and stupas set around gardens and ponds. Delve into the complexity of the Korean language at the National Hangeul Museum. Watch concerts, dance shows and plays at the Theater Yong.

Reach the museum easily by taking the train or metro to Ichon station. Parking is available for a fee within the grounds.

The National Museum of Korea is open daily, except New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year and Korean Thanksgiving. Admission is free. The Children’s Museum opens on the last Wednesday of the month and an online reservation is required. Fees are applicable for special exhibitions, the National Hangeul Museum and Theater Yong. Join one of the guided tours in English, which take place up to three times daily. Audio guides are also available for a fee.

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Things to do near National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea offers a wealth of activities, including free entry to explore its extensive exhibits. Nearby, you can indulge in some retail therapy at Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. This combination of cultural immersion and shopping makes for a delightful visit, ensuring a memorable experience in Seoul.

Shopping

For shopping near the National Museum of Korea, visit Namdaemun Market, a lively public market just 3.2km away, perfect for local goods. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station, also 3.2km away, offers family-friendly shopping. If you're up for a drive, Shinsegae Shopping Center is 4.8km away with a range of stores.

Recreation

Seoul Olympic Stadium, 8.0km from the National Museum of Korea, offers a vibrant sports atmosphere. Kukkiwon, 4.8km away, provides a tranquil environment for wellness and relaxation. Ttukseom Hangang Park, also 8.0km distant, is perfect for leisurely strolls amidst nature, enhancing your overall wellbeing.

Adventure

The Namsan Cable Car offers breathtaking views as you ascend, perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike, located 3.2km from the museum. For watery fun, SeaLaLa Spa & Water Park, 6.4km away, promises entertainment and adventure, while Anyang Water Land, 12.9km distant, provides exciting aquatic experiences for all.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the National Museum of Korea with a captivating performance at Myeongdong Nanta Theatre, just 4.8km away. For a fun-filled evening, visit the Hannam Bowling Center, 3.2km away, or the entertaining Kokkiri Bowlingjang, also 4.8km distant, for adventure and laughter.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near National Museum of Korea

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, seeking a family experience, or exploring the urban landscape, the National Museum of Korea and its surroundings offer a delightful array of attractions. You can discover a variety of points of interest, including parks, additional museums, and vibrant streets, ensuring a rich experience during your visit to Seoul.

  • Myeongdong Street: A vibrant tourist precinct, Myeongdong Street is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, filled with family-friendly outdoor activities, shopping, and street food delights, located 4.8km from the National Museum of Korea.
  • N Seoul Tower: This iconic modern tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul's skyline. Situated 3.2km from the museum, it is a perfect spot to experience the city's vibrant energy and enjoy a romantic evening.
  • Gwanghwamun: A historic gate arch, Gwanghwamun is steeped in culture and history. Located 6.4km from the National Museum of Korea, it serves as a grand entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, showcasing Korea's rich heritage.

Best time to go to National Museum of Korea

The best time to visit National Museum of Korea can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around National Museum of Korea falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature around National Museum of Korea falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.3°F (-2.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February32.5°F (0.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.2°F (6.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December30.7°F (-0.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Museum of Korea

For a budget-friendly visit to the National Museum of Korea, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation rates, avoiding peak seasons in April, October, and December. Booking your hotel about a month in advance, particularly on a Wednesday, can also yield savings. Explore Expedia for last-minute deals and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for added discounts. Utilize the search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, ensuring you find the best rates without hidden fees.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Museum of Korea are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around National Museum of Korea about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Museum of Korea is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around National Museum of Korea is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at the National Museum of Korea with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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