National Museum of Korea

It was one of those scorching summer days in Seoul—31 degrees and climbing, the kind of heat that makes the pavement shimmer and your clothes stick to your skin the moment you step outside. I needed a break, not just from the weather, but from the noise and bustle of the city. So I decided to take refuge somewhere cool—not just in temperature, but in spirit. That’s how I found myself walking through the grand entrance of the museum, where the air-conditioning is crisp and the atmosphere is hushed with reverence. There’s something so comforting about wandering through corridors lined with history, where time slows down and the stories of past civilizations quietly unfold. This museum has always been one of my favorite escapes. It houses an incredible range of historical artifacts—from delicate ceramics and ancient scrolls to royal treasures and everyday objects that once belonged to people just like us, centuries ago. Each room feels like a portal to another world, and I never get tired of losing myself in its quiet magic. Even better? Admission is completely free every day, except for the occasional special exhibition. It’s rare to find such a rich cultural experience that’s so accessible to everyone. On a day when the city feels relentless, this museum offers not just a break from the heat, but a space to breathe, reflect, and be reminded of the long and fascinating human journey that brought us here. If you ever need a break—from the weather, the routine, or the chaos—this place is a perfect little oasis.

Very neatly structured and spacious. There are a lot of exhibits and one could easily spend a few hours there. There are organized free tours conducted by volunteers in Korean and English. The guide introduced the top 10 highlights of the museum. Very educational and informative session. There is a cafe and a food court within the museum and a lot of seating spaces.

Amazing architecture blending with the surroundings perfectly. Great outside and indoor spaces. The design of every room is great and huge. Loved the videos and video mapping in some of the galleries. A blend of tech and tradition. There are robots roaming around ready to assist you and guide you through.

This is without a doubt one of the world's best national museums. The architecture is beautiful with the lake in the front and view above the city in the back. The museum itself is spotless, not sure we have ever been in a museum so clean. The organization and flow of the museum was incredibly well thought out. We stumbled into a free English tour that was great.

My wife and I visited on a Wednesday early afternoon, 6/11/2025, and it was perfect because the museum was not too crowded. We were able to linger at each exhibit and read all the captions to our content without feeling rushed. There were plenty of benches placed strategically to rest. There were filtered/chilled water stations on each floor with disposable sleeves to drink with. Or you can fill your water bottles. There were moving robots that you could interact with for directions. There was even a Roman & Greek exhibit?

An impressive and enriching place to visit! The National Museum of Korea is beautifully designed, spacious, and thoughtfully curated. It offers a deep dive into Korea’s rich history and culture, from ancient artifacts and Buddhist sculptures to Joseon dynasty relics and international exhibitions. The layout is easy to navigate, with detailed English descriptions available for most displays. The surrounding area, including the peaceful reflection pond and sculpture garden, adds to the overall experience. It’s a great spot for history lovers, families, or anyone looking to better understand Korea’s heritage. Best of all, general admission is free! Definitely a must-visit when in Seoul.

I love the National Museum of Korea—it’s just a 5-minute walk from Ichon Station, which makes it super convenient. It’s one of the best places to experience and learn about Korean culture. The best part? Admission is free! The museum is open every day from 10 AM, except on New Year’s Day. The staff are kind and very accommodating, which makes the visit even more enjoyable. If you’re in Seoul, this place is a must-visit!

Fabulous museum, don’t miss it! Allow 1 to 5 hours for your visit. Whether you love art or history, you will enjoy this museum. The displays are thoughtfully arranged and include thorough explanations. I even used a robot to guide me to some exhibits of interest, try it, it’s fun, especially recommended for children. There is a lot of walking both inside and outside (free admission outside) the museum. A subway station is nearby and easy to use.