Are you preparing for a trip to South Korea soon? One way to learn about the country and its people is through its cultural attractions. It’s where locals express themselves through art. Here are seven art spaces in the Land of the Morning Calm for you to include in your itinerary.
Arte Museum Jeju
In recent years, the city of Jeju has seen a number of new museums sprouting. One of them is Arte Museum Jeju, an interactive multimedia museum in a large renovated warehouse. It’s conveniently located near plenty of famous attractions such as Hyeopjae Beach, a racing track and a tea museum.
Each of the ten zones are dedicated to nature or art. For example, in the Beach space, you’ll feel like you’re walking along the beach with a video projected onto the walls and floor. In addition, the sound of waves is played to complete the experience. Other rooms include the Night Safari, Moon, Star and Jungle.
End your tour with a cup of tea at the Arte Tea Bar, where the art doesn’t stop, with flowery images projected onto your table.
Address: 478 Eorimbi-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju, Jeju-do
Operating Hours: Daily, 10am to 8pm (Last entry at 7pm)
Flowers by Naked Hongdae
As its name suggests, Flowers by Naked is an interactive multimedia art exhibition centred on the theme of flowers. Thus, you will observe nature and technology co-exist when you step into one of the eight immersive zones. Regardless of where you’re standing, you’ll certainly find a photo-worthy spot for the ‘gram. In addition, there’s a nature-themed cafe, a mini concert hall, as well as classrooms where floral masterclasses are held.
Address: AK& Hongdae, Level 4, 188 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Anyang Art Park
This public outdoor art park is located just outside Seoul, making it a great destination for a day trip. The architecture is aesthetically designed and there’re plenty of quirky art installations to be found. In fact, there are a total of 52 art pieces in this park alone. Apart from admiring the art, you can make a splash in the stream and take a hike in the forest
Address: 131, Yesulgongwon-ro, Manan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ground Seesaw
If you’re looking for a unique exhibition, head to Ground Seesaw. The current exhibition, Red Room (Love is in the Air) is a love-themed exhibition targeted at adults 19 years and older. Featuring over 200 art pieces by international artists, this intimate art exhibition can be viewed until 6 November 2022.
Address: 18-8, Jahamun-ro 6-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: Daily, 10am to 7pm. Closed on the first Mondays of each month
Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art
The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is one of Korea’s most famous private galleries, as it is built and managed by the conglomerate. One wing features traditional Korean art such as ancient paintings, calligraphy and crafts. The other wing allows visitors to move freely around the space and features contemporary art from around the world. In this museum, you’ll appreciate art from past and present, and how it inspires future art. The museum often hosts large events from big names in the art scene, such as Anita Kapoor, Mark Rothko and Nam June Paik.
Address: Itaewon-ro 55-gil 60-16, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: Daily, 10am to 6pm
Arario Museum in Space
This modern art museum is a cultural space home to around 200 selected pieces. The maze-like lair is an important piece of architectural art itself. Inspired by traditional Korean housing, hanok, this museum has narrow staircases and low ceilings. Enjoy a birds’ eye view of Changdeok Palace from the fifth floor of the building.
Address: 83 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am to 7pm
MUSEUM 1
You’ll feel like you’re stepping into another realm when you enter MUSEUM 1. Its vivid ceiling-to-floor digital illustrations makes art larger than life. At MUSEUM 1, you’re encouraged to interact with the artwork. This is in contrast to typical art galleries where art is silently appreciated. In fact, you can become part of the artwork. You can also observe how the art constantly evolves when more visitors interact with it.
Address: 20 Centumseo-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
Operating Hours: Weekdays 10am to 7pm, Weekends 10am to 8pm
Need more help in planning your itinerary? Check out these useful South Korea travel guides!
