Seoul's Hidden Gem: The National Folk Museum of Korea
Located within Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea is a treasure trove where you can delve deep into traditional Korean culture and daily life. As the only national comprehensive museum in Korea that fully showcases the history of folk life, it not only boasts a rich collection of exhibits but also offers a serene space to savor Korean culture at a leisurely pace.
1. Museum Overview: A Deep Dive into Traditional Korean Life
The National Folk Museum of Korea displays over 4,000 pieces of ethnographic materials, covering various aspects of daily life in Korea, such as clothing, food, housing, rituals, and seasonal customs. The museum's exhibitions are divided into several thematic areas, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time to ancient Korea, experiencing their traditional way of life firsthand.
📍 Address: Inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongno-gu, Seoul (connected to the Gyeongbokgung Palace area, recommended to visit together).
🕙 Opening Hours:
• Summer (March to October): 09:00~18:00
• Winter (November to February): 09:00~17:00
• Closed on Tuesdays
💰 Ticket Information:
• The museum is free to visit, but you need to purchase a Gyeongbokgung Palace ticket to enter the palace grounds.
🚇 Transportation: Take Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, exit at Exit 5, and walk about 5 minutes.
2. Exhibition Highlights: Travel Through Centuries, Experience Ancient Korea
1. Traditional Life Hall
This hall showcases the life scenes of ordinary Koreans from birth to old age. You can see recreations of traditional Korean weddings, old-fashioned family kitchens, and various daily necessities, experiencing how people spent their seasons and important life moments.
2. Traditional Festivals and Customs Hall
Learn about Korea's traditional seasonal festivals and ritual culture, from spring farming to autumn harvest, and recreated scenes of Chuseok and New Year celebrations, making you feel as if you are part of traditional Korean festivities.
3. Outdoor Exhibition Area
The museum's outdoor area recreates traditional village landscapes, with thatched houses, mills, and farming tools, perfect for taking photos and understanding ancient rural life.
3. Visiting Tips
• Photography Tips: Most exhibits in the museum can be photographed, but avoid using flash. The outdoor area is great for taking vintage-style photos, so plan your angles in advance.
• Best Visiting Time: It is recommended to visit early in the morning when there are fewer visitors, allowing you to appreciate the exhibits quietly.
• Combine with Gyeongbokgung Palace: It is recommended to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square on the same day for a compact yet unhurried itinerary.
Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Culture and History
The National Folk Museum of Korea is a place that is both interesting and deeply informative about traditional Korean culture, perfect for history and culture enthusiasts. If you are tired of Seoul's popular tourist spots, this hidden cultural gem will be an excellent choice to slow down and savor Korean stories. Next time you visit Seoul, take some time to explore this hidden cultural treasure and enrich your trip with more fascinating experiences!