By Ambre El Ouazzani
Right in the city centre, in the Yongsan district, stands The National Museum of Korea. A huge modern building that hosts the moZst important art and historical exhibitions in the entire country with over 420,000 items covering a span from Korea’s prehistoric lifestyle to contemporary art.
Inside the giant walls of one of the biggest museums in the world are six permanent exhibitions that you can visit for free, some special exhibitions that require separate fees and a children’s museum that requires an online reservation.
The permanent exhibition is divided into three floors, each of which hosts a different exhibition.
The first floor is dedicated to Korean history. In this part you will find numerous pieces, some of which are more than 5,000 years old. The collection is really complete and you can stroll between the rooms and travel into the past through a multitude of artifacts of ancient Korean lifestyles and historical customs. A very effective way to enhance your knowledge and to get a more realistic image of Korea itself and its people since the prehistoric period.
The second floor is mainly about the painting and calligraphy exhibition part of the museum. You will find ancient paintings, detailed videos about the painting process and video analyses and explanations about certain pieces of art.
This area of the museum is a showcase of Korean and Buddhist art and calligraphy. You will be mesmerised by the softness of the paintings and their bright colours that will transport you into a peaceful bubble.
You’ll find the donated collection and a quiet contemplation room as well.
Finally, on the third floor is the section about sculptures and Buddhist crafts. Some of the finest pieces of Korean artisans and representations of Buddha . A real display of the most beautiful sculptures of the country as well as metal and ceramic Korean pieces that bear witness of ancient traditions.
On the same floor, you will also find additional exhibitions about Chinese and Japanese culture and traditions. You will
even be able to visit Roman and Greek exhibitions with a display of many sculptures.
The surprising and positive thing about this museum is that the exhibitions are displayed in semi-darkness and the different rooms remain very quiet, a setting that perfectly suits people in need of calm and peace.
You will also be able to find a seat or a couch very easily to take a break if needed.
In a nutshell, this is the perfect place if you want to broaden your knowledge of South Korean history, culture, tradition, and religion while having a great time in a relaxing atmosphere, alone or with your friends or relatives.
But that is not all, the museum isn’t beautiful just by what’s hosted, the surroundings hold many surprises. At the top of the stairs facing the museum entrance, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Namsan Tower, an ideal photoshoot spot or just a place to sit if you want to enjoy a peaceful view.
Moreover, all around the museum when it’s sunny and warm you can enjoy Yongsan Park. The path from the museum to the Yongsan family park is a delightful walk where you can see some birds and small animals in their habitat. A walk that children will love, and a perfect spot for a picnic before or after visiting the museum.
Practical information:
- The museum is easily accessible by subway, the nearest station is Ichon (line 4).
- Disabled people and people in a wheelchair can access the museum without any problem, elevators and escalators are available all over the museum. You can even rest on the many couches and seats.
- The museum has all its exhibitions translated into English, and you can also find pamphlets in Chinese, Japanese, English, Dutch, French, Vietnamese…
- A small café area is on the third floor where you can order a beverage and a pastry.
- The permanent exhibition is free, special exhibitions require some fees and the children’s museum requires online reservation.
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