National Museum of Korea Tours

National Museum of Korea which includes interior views and heritage elements as well as a small group of people
National Museum of Korea as well as a small group of people
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 heritage elements and interior views


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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Reviews of National Museum of Korea

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
137
5 - Excellent 56%
4 - Good
85
4 - Good 35%
3 - Okay
23
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

DaleJohnson

This is free and a great place to start learning about the Korean culture.  We learned a lot during a 2 hour visit.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Free admission for the regular exihibits.

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Best Lodging Options Near National Museum of Korea

Grand Hyatt Seoul

Grand Hyatt Seoul

5 out of 5
322, Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Seoul
Grand Hyatt Seoul
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon

Mondrian Seoul Itaewon

5 out of 5
23, Jangmun-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon
ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

4 out of 5
95, Cheongpa-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

4.5 out of 5
95, Cheongpa-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City
Hamilton Hotel

Hamilton Hotel

3 out of 5
179, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Seoul
Hamilton Hotel
Novotel Suites Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

Novotel Suites Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City

5 out of 5
95, Cheongpa-ro 20-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Novotel Suites Ambassador Seoul Yongsan - Seoul Dragon City
Nine Tree Premier ROKAUS Hotel Seoul Yongsan

Nine Tree Premier ROKAUS Hotel Seoul Yongsan

4 out of 5
25, Hangang-daero 23-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Nine Tree Premier ROKAUS Hotel Seoul Yongsan
ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun

ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun

4 out of 5
36, Sejong-daero 11-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, Seoul
ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun
LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong

LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong

4 out of 5
362, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near National Museum of Korea

When visiting the National Museum of Korea in Seoul, don’t miss the chance to explore nearby shopping options and enjoy the vibrant local culture. You can also enhance your experience with city tours that showcase the rich history and attractions of Seoul, making your trip both educational and entertaining. Dive into the unique blend of tradition and modernity that this bustling city has to offer.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience near the National Museum of Korea, visit Namdaemun Market, just 2 miles away, offering a bustling atmosphere. Lotte Outlets Seoul Station, also 2 miles away, combines shopping and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Shinsegae Shopping Center is located 3 miles away.

Recreation

At the Seoul Olympic Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of sports activities just 5 miles from the museum. For a serene experience, visit Kukkiwon, a wellness center 3 miles away, offering relaxation. Ttukseom Hangang Park, also 5 miles away, is perfect for leisurely strolls and nature appreciation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Namsan Cable Car, offering stunning views of Seoul as you ascend the mountain, located 2 miles from the museum. For water fun, visit SeaLaLa Spa & Water Park, 4 miles away, or Anyang Water Land, 8 miles away, both perfect for family adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the National Museum of Korea with a visit to Myeongdong Nanta Theatre for an entertaining cultural show, or enjoy some fun at the Hannam Bowling Center and New Cheongryong Bowlingjang for a thrilling bowling experience. Each venue promises a unique adventure.

*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

At the National Museum of Korea in Seoul, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the area. Explore urban parks, nearby museums, and vibrant streets, making it a perfect destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. With a plethora of attractions surrounding the museum, you'll find plenty of engaging activities to enrich your visit and create lasting memories.

  • Myeongdong Street: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Myeongdong Street, a vibrant shopping district filled with trendy boutiques, street food stalls, and cosmetics shops. This lively area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a taste of local culture and cuisine just 3 miles from the National Museum of Korea.
  • N Seoul Tower: Standing tall at 2 miles away, N Seoul Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the top, enjoy dining options, and explore the surrounding park, making it a popular romantic and sightseeing destination.
  • Gwanghwamun: As a historic gate arch located 4 miles away, Gwanghwamun is a symbol of Seoul’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Gyeongbokgung Palace nearby and experience traditional ceremonies, immersing themselves in Korean history and culture.

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

To save money on your visit to the National Museum of Korea, plan your trip between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Booking about a month in advance typically yields the best rates, especially on Wednesdays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilize Expedia to search for hotel deals, filter by price, and consider package deals that combine hotels with flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future stays, helping you stretch your budget further during your trip.

  • 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: Booking a hotel around National Museum of Korea about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the National Museum of Korea with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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