FreePhoto: Korea Tourism Organization
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
대한민국역사박물관
Museum · Jongno-gu
A free modern history museum facing Gwanghwamun Square. Insider tip: the rooftop viewpoint takes in Gyeongbokgung and the square at a glance.
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Source: much.go.kr
Nearby in Jongno-gu
Gwanghwamun Citizens' Open Square
FreePark · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
A rest spot for Seoul's citizens created on the site of the old Yukjo Street at Gwanghwamun. It takes in Yukjo Madang to the northeast, a modern re-creation of Yukjo Street, a citizens' rest area to the southwest, and the open space at the center
The Story of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin
FreeMuseum · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
An exhibition space in the heart of Gwanghwamun where history comes alive, devoted to King Sejong, the 4th king of Joseon, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin of the Imjin War, the two figures Koreans most respect and take pride in.
Sejongno Park
FreePark · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
A green space along Sejong-daero, the nation's central axis (Gyeongbokgung Palace–Gwanghwamun–Sejong Center–Cheonggyecheon–Seoul Plaza). Once run-down and closed off with limited public access, it was reborn as an open park linked to Gwanghwamun Square, creating a new
Gwanghwamun Square
FreePlaza · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
A downtown plaza with Gyeongbokgung Palace as its backdrop. In summer the ground fountains and water channels invite splashing. Shaded rest areas, drinking fountains and toilets on site.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) Exit 5
Joseon's foremost royal palace. Free on the last Wednesday of the month or in hanbok. The changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 and 14:00) is always free.
Sujeongjeon Hall at Gyeongbokgung Palace
FreeHistoric site · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
Sujeongjeon stands west of Geunjeongjeon, with Gyeonghoeru Pavilion to its north.
Other museums in Seoul
National Museum of Korea
Partly freeYongsan-gu · Ichon Stn. (Line 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
Korea's largest museum, with all permanent galleries free. The spacious lobby and Reflecting Pond garden are good for a rest, and Wednesday and Saturday evening openings are quieter.
National Folk Museum of Korea
FreeJongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. / Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
A free museum of Korean daily life. The outdoor Memory Street and children's museum make it great for families.
Seoul Museum of History
FreeJongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. / Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)
A free museum on Seoul's transformation from the Joseon era to the present. The old Tram No. 381 outside is a photo favourite.
Postage Stamp Museum
FreeJung-gu · Euljiro 1-ga Stn. (Line 2) Exit 6, Myeongdong Stn. (Line 4) Exit 5
A compact free museum on the history of stamps. In the middle of Myeong-dong, so it's a handy escape from the heat or cold.
Korean Film Museum
FreeMapo-gu · Digital Media City Stn. (Line 6, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
Free museum covering 100 years of Korean cinema. The on-site film archive library screens classics at no charge.