National Museum of Korea in Seoul, South Korea

National Museum of Korea

Seoul doesn't quite match up to London in terms of amazing museums that are free. However, there are a few museums in Seoul that you must visit if 1) if you are the type that loves museums and 2) if you have more than a week vacation in Seoul.

One of these museums that I would like to talk about is the National Museum of Korea. It is located in the Yongsan-gu area of Seoul and the admission is free. 

What You Will Like About This Museum:

1. You'll get a good glimpse of Korean history from the Gorguyeo Dynasty, Choseon Dynasty, Baekjae Dynasty, etc. You'll see this through old documents that are on display, pottery, and paintings.

2. You'll also see other Asian works on display at various times. Two months ago, I visited the museum and saw Japanese paintings and Indian sculptures being showcased.

3. Obviously you'll enjoy the free admission. But not only is the main museum free, but also the Children's Museum is free as well.

4. It's conveniently located. See below for details.

5. There's a nice lake just outside the museum, which will give you yet another picturesque view of Seoul.

6. I'm not Buddhist but the Buddhist statues are pretty large and are interesting to look at.

7. You can get a clear view of N Seoul Tower from the north side of the museum especially on a clear day.

What You Might Not Like About the Museum:

1. If you're not into Korean history, this might not be the place for you. You might get bored especially since it's a very large museum.

2. There's only one cafe that serves food and drinks. It gets a bit crowded especially during peak times.

3. I'm not a big fan of pottery and you'll see a lot of it at this museum. You can just skip those rooms and check out the rooms that interest you more.

Pictures of the Museum:

The lake outside the museum

N Seoul Tower in the background

A huge pagoda on the first floor of the museum

Japanese calligraphy

A large statue of Buddha

A view of N Seoul Tower from the north side

Website: National Museum of Korea Directions: Take Line 4 or the Jungang Line (Munsan-Yongmun) to Ichon Station. Go out Exit 2, and walk 150m toward Yongsan Family Park.

• ※ Wheelchair accessibility: If your train is bound for Oido, the elevator is at the front end of the platform. If your train is bound for Danggogae, the elevator is at the rear end of the platform. Take the elevator up to the ticket office level, then take the elevator located at Museum Nadeulgil near Exit 1 & 2.

Scott Worden (The L.A/Seoul Guy)

Instagram: l.a.seoulguy