The National Museum of Korea is one of the most prominent museums in the country, featuring fascinating objects that span the periods of Korean prehistory right up to the Korean Empire, which was annexed by Japan in 1910. Across the three-story museum, which contains six permanent galleries, visitors can explore numerous captivating exhibits and peruse the extensive collection of artifacts showcased here. Interactive displays and other immersive mediums enable history buffs to delve deep into the country's culture, customs, and traditions. Additionally, the museum organizes educational activities, gallery talks, and exciting events such as scavenger hunts for all ages. Moreover, there are special exhibition halls, educational facilities, a children's museum, an expansive outdoor exhibition area, restaurants, cafes, shops, and other amenities.
The Total Museum of Contemporary Art was previously known as Total Outdoor Museum as it began as an open air museum. Established in 1976, the award winning museum was shifted to its current location post the 1988 Summer Olympics. The collection includes more than 150 paintings, more than 150 sculptures, 200 prints, 5,000 tomes of fine arts, 20,000 illustrated books, and video data. Designed by famous architect Shin Gyu Moon, the building now has 3 floors for exhibitions, a vault, a curators lab, conference rooms and an outdoor space for live performances or seminars.
Since 1972, Seodaemun Prison History Center has been a national independence monument, dedicated to those who suffered in the name of Korea under the Japanese occupation (1910-45). It was built during the time of Japan's oppression of Korea, and even today the walls are haunted by the many atrocities committed at this site. The cells, confinement and torture rooms are restored to how they were before 1945. There is also a hall with some historical background and descriptions.
Located across the courtyard from the Traditional Performing Arts Center, this five-room museum is an informative place to visit. This is the major center in Seoul for preserving, researching, and educating people on Korean traditional music. In the museum, there are displays and historical explanations of the development of traditional music in Korea. You can also see all the various wind, string, and drum instruments, which are still used today. Admission is free.
This temple was founded by Master Shinwol in 1523. It burned down in 1618 and was rebuilt the following year by Master Dowol. In 1866, two monks, Yonso and Pomun, went to great lengths to repair the weak structure. Hwagyesa temple is famous for the statues of Bodhisattva Kstitigarbha and the Ten Judges in the Judgment Hall. These were beautifully carved by Master Naong in the late Koryo Dynasty (918-1392) and then brought to the temple in 1877. Today, it serves as home to the Seoul International Zen Center. You may even see foreign monks and lay people living and practicing Buddhism here. There is no admission fee.
Taekwondo, one of Korea's national martial arts, enjoys international recognition. At the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics, it debuted as a medal sport. Visit (Kukkiwon) Taekwondo Memorial Hall to learn more about the history and significance of this martial art. Around 3,000 items relating to Taekwondo are on display, including trophies from international and national meets, uniforms, medals, newspaper articles, pendants, victory flags, and written tributes. Admission is free.