Donuimun Museum

Museum · Seodaemun Stn. / Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)

A modern-era alley village recreating the old Saemunan neighbourhood. Free entry to retro tearooms, comic book rooms and a cinema, and a great spot for vintage photos.

Culture space · Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)

Where Kim Gu worked and was assassinated. Restored to its original form inside Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, free to visit.

Historic site · Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)

A designated historic site, Gyeonghuigung served as a secondary palace in the late Joseon period.

Museum · 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.

Museum · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)

Joseon-era rain gauges and more than a century of Seoul weather records. Far more rewarding if you book the free guided tour.

Library · Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)

Public library in Jongno-gu. Free entry and reading, with heating and air conditioning.

Yongsan-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.

Jongno-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.

Jongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5) Exit 2

A free modern history museum facing Gwanghwamun Square. Insider tip: the rooftop viewpoint takes in Gyeongbokgung and the square at a glance.

Jung-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.

Mapo-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.