Themed Spots 1: Museum Tour

Discovering Korea, One Gallery at a Time

Seoul is a city where tradition and modernity live side by side. You might find a royal palace next to a sleek skyscraper, or stumble upon a quiet museum after wandering through a lively market. Among all the ways to explore Korean culture, visiting a museum is one of the most meaningful — and peaceful — experiences you can have.

Whether you're fascinated by history, drawn to art, or just looking for a cool indoor activity on a hot or rainy day, there's a museum for you. You don’t need to plan a full-day trip. Just one or two exhibitions in the right place can leave a lasting impression.

 

How to Choose a Museum in Seoul

With so many museums scattered across the city, there’s no need to go far out of your way. Just choose one that suits your mood, your interests — or the weather.

✔ Into Korean history?
✔ Traveling solo and craving quiet time?
✔ Raining outside or blazing hot?
✔ Looking for something near a palace, a park, or a trendy neighborhood?

You’ll find a museum that fits.

 

Must-Visit Museums for Foreign Visitors

Here’s a list of Seoul’s most visitor-friendly museums — all offering something unique, most with English signage or guides, and many within walking distance of other attractions.

 1. National Museum of Korea

A world-class museum that traces Korean history from prehistory through the Joseon Dynasty. Spacious, quiet, and surrounded by nature — perfect for slow, reflective travel.
📍 Ichon Station  — Line 4 & Gyeongui–Jungang Line

2. War Memorial of Korea

Focused on Korea’s modern military history, this museum combines emotional storytelling with large-scale exhibits like tanks and warplanes.
📍 Samgakji Station (삼각지역) — Line 4 & Line 6

 

3. National Folk Museum of Korea

Located inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, this museum shows how Koreans lived, worked, and celebrated over the centuries.
📍 Gyeongbokgung Station  — Line 3

 

4. National Palace Museum of Korea

Just outside Gyeongbokgung’s main gate (Gwanghwamun), this museum features royal artifacts, scientific tools, and ceremonial records from the Joseon Dynasty.
📍 Gyeongbokgung Station  — Line 3

 

5. National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

A fascinating look into Korea’s post-war transformation — politics, economy, and society. Right across from Gwanghwamun Square.
📍 Gwanghwamun Station  — Line 5

 

6. Seoul Museum of History

Walk through Seoul’s story, from royal capital to global megacity. A quiet, underrated gem near traditional neighborhoods.
📍 Gwanghwamun Station  — Line 5

 

7. National Hangeul Museum

Discover the story of Hangul, Korea’s unique writing system, through immersive displays and media. Ideal for families and language lovers.
📍 Ichon Station  — Line 4 & Gyeongui–Jungang Line

  

8. Seodaemun Prison History Hall

A powerful and somber museum located on the site of a former prison used during the Japanese colonial period. Through preserved cells, execution chambers, and exhibits, it tells the story of Korea’s independence movement and the resilience of its people.
It’s a deeply moving stop for those interested in human rights, colonial history, or Korea’s path to democracy.
📍 Dongnimmun Station  — Seoul Subway Line 3

 

9. MMCA Seoul (National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art)

Korean and international contemporary art in a clean, meditative space just behind Deoksugung Palace.
📍 City Hall Station  — Line 1 & Line 2
📍 Gyeongbokgung Station — Line 3

 

10. Leeum Museum of Art

A visually stunning museum featuring both traditional and contemporary works. The building itself is a design highlight.
📍 Hangangjin Station  — Line 6
Also walkable from Itaewon 

 

11. Seoul Museum of Craft Art

A beautiful blend of architecture and craft nestled between Bukchon and modern galleries. Quiet, slow-paced, and inspiring.
📍 Anguk Station  — Line 3

 

12. Museum Kimchikan

Learn everything about Korea’s most iconic food — kimchi! Fun, interactive, and located in the heart of a traditional shopping street.
📍 Jonggak Station  — Line 1
📍 Anguk Station  — Line 3

 

What If It Rains?

Museums are perfect for rainy days or extreme heat. They offer more than just exhibitions — you’ll find rest areas, cafés, clean facilities, and multilingual audio guides. If you're traveling solo, they’re also a great place to pause and recharge.

 

Itinerary Tips

You don’t need to plan a full museum day. Just mix one in with a nearby walk, meal, or historic site.

Sample half-day plans:

▪ Gyeongbokgung Palace → National Folk Museum of Korea → Bukchon Hanok Village

▪ Ichon Station → National Museum of Korea + Hangeul Museum → Walk in Yongsan Family Park

▪ National Palace Museum of Korea → Gyeongbokgung Palace → National Folk Museum of Korea → Bukchon Hanok Village

 

Final Thoughts

Museums in Seoul offer a chance to slow down and dive deeper. Whether it’s ancient bronze, calligraphy on silk, the invention of Hangul, or modern social change — every gallery is a window into Korea’s story.

So take a break from sightseeing and step into a museum. You might walk in for shelter from the rain — but leave with something more lasting.