National Folk Museum of Korea (국립민속박물관)

Located within the historic grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea offers visitors a journey through Korea's rich cultural heritage. This free museum presents an immersive experience of traditional Korean life, from the Joseon Dynasty to the modern era, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand Korean culture.

Experience

The museum's architecture seamlessly blends traditional Korean design elements with modern museum practices, creating a harmonious space that honors the past while embracing the present. Inside, visitors explore three main exhibition halls that cover different aspects of Korean life: traditional daily life, the Korean way of life, and life cycle traditions.

What makes this museum particularly special is the "7080 Memory Lane" exhibition - a nostalgic recreation of Seoul's streets from the 1970s and 1980s. This free retro village experience features recreated old shops, complete with vintage items and interactive displays that transport visitors back in time. It's particularly popular among Koreans who remember those decades and international visitors curious about Korea's recent past.

Highlights

• 7080 Memory Lane: Free retro village with recreated 1970s-80s streets and shops
• Traditional Daily Life: Displays of traditional Korean homes and customs
• Korean Way of Life: Agriculture, clothing, and food culture exhibitions
• Life Cycle Traditions: Birth, marriage, and death rituals throughout Korean history
• Seasonal Exhibitions: Special exhibitions highlighting traditional Korean seasonal celebrations

Location & Access

• Address: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (inside Gyeongbokgung Palace)
• Neighborhood: Samcheong-dong/Jongno (historic heart of Seoul)
• Transportation: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5 - 5 minutes walk
• Operating Hours:
  • March to October: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last admission: 5:00 PM, Extended to 8:00 PM on Saturdays)
  • November to February: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission: 4:00 PM)
• Admission: Free

The National Folk Museum of Korea serves as a cultural bridge connecting Korea's past with its present, offering visitors of all ages an engaging and educational experience. The museum's combination of comprehensive exhibits, interactive displays, and the nostalgic 7080 Memory Lane makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean culture and history.

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