National Museum of Korea 국립중앙박물관
Seoul · Yongsan, Itaewon & Hannam · Museums & exhibits
The National Museum of Korea is among the largest museums in Asia, and general admission to its permanent galleries is free. Its halls trace Korean history from prehistoric tools through the gold crowns of Silla to Joseon scrolls and Buddhist sculpture, and English labels and audio guides help first-time visitors. A favorite is the Room of Meditation, a dim, quiet space where two gilded Buddhist statues sit in silence.
There is also a children's museum, which requires a separate reservation. The museum stays open late on some evenings, but hours and special exhibition fees may change.
Ichon Station (이촌역), Line 4 and Gyeongui-Jungang Line, Exit 2, connects to the museum through an underground passage.
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 국립중앙박물관
- Best time to visit
- A weekday morning has the calmest galleries. Rainy and very hot days are ideal.
- Pair it with
- War Memorial of Korea and Yongsan I'Park Mall and CGV are not far, and Nodeul Island is across the road toward the river.
- Great for
- Families with kids, Parents, Solo travelers
- Local tip
- General admission is free, with English labels and audio guides. Do not miss the Room of Meditation; the children's museum needs a separate reservation.
- Reservations
- Children's museum needs a separate reservation