Seoul offers a plethora of tourist attractions, making it a constant dilemma to recommend places to foreign friends visiting the city. However, one destination stands out without hesitation: the National Museum of Korea in Yongsan, Seoul.
National Museum of Korea
- Admission Fee:
- Free for Permanent Exhibitions
- Special Exhibition Fees vary ($10 to $30)
- Location: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea(map)
- Facilities: Gift shops, 4 restaurants, 4 cafes, 1 convenience store
- Transportation: Subway Line 4, Ichon Station (Station Number 430)
The National Museum of Korea is a fantastic place to visit! It has a vast collection of Korean art and artifacts that will surely amaze you. Even if you’re not an enthusiast, you’ll find something to enjoy here. One reason for this is its strategic location and distinctive features. Welcome to the Yongsan Family Park Museum! Our museum is located on the site of a former US military golf course and covers an impressive 75,900m2 (81,7070 square feet), providing a refreshing sense of openness in the midst of the bustling cityscape.
Additionally, the museum’s architecture is inspired by the warm and welcoming aesthetic of traditional Korean walls, avoiding both a sense of authority and unnecessary extravagance. The central open space provides a captivating view of Seoul’s Namsan Tower, and the pond in front of the museum adds to its charm.
Two exhibits in the museum are really noteworthy!
You won’t want to miss the Ten-Story Stone Pagoda of Gyeongcheonsa Temple, which is particularly impressive. It’s made entirely of stone and features intricate carvings of animals and flowers, as well as wooden pillars and railings, showcasing the fusion of stone and wood architectural techniques. The pagoda is located in the museum’s 1st-floor lobby and extends up to the 3rd floor, allowing for viewing from multiple interior levels.
Secondly, I was captivated by the ‘Room of Meditation’. The statues depict Buddha resting his right foot lightly on his left knee, with his right hand resting on his cheek and his eyes half-closed, as if lost in deep thought. These statues were created in the late 6th and early 7th centuries and exude a mystical aura. Sitting in contemplation, the Buddha’s face bears a subtle smile, suggestive of profound reflection. Comparing the ornate details and crafting techniques of the two statues only adds to the intrigue.
Max