National Palace Museum of Korea

National Palace Museum of Korea

The National Palace Museum of Korea is located in Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. Established in 1908, its purpose is to collect, research, and preserve relics of the Joseon royal family and the Korean Empire, as well as to promote and conserve the splendid cultural heritage of the Korean royal court.

The National Palace Museum of Korea houses a collection of 40,000 items from the Joseon Dynasty to the Korean Empire, including 14 designated as National Treasures of South Korea. The museum is divided into 12 exhibition halls, each showcasing distinct collections—for example, the Royal Records Room highlights the dignity of the Joseon royal family and imperial records; the State Rituals Room displays the authority of the royal family and state rituals; the Science and Culture Room illustrates scientific development during the Joseon period; the Royal Architecture Room features palaces of the Joseon era; the Royal Life Room showcases the lifestyle and culture of the royal family; the Birth and Education Room tells stories of royal births and education; the Royal Art and Literature Room exhibits the artistic and literary works of the Joseon royal family; and the Self-striking Clepsydra Room explains how people in ancient times accurately told time.

The exhibits in the museum cover a wide range of items including clothing, food, daily utensils, diplomatic gifts, royal life artifacts, imperial seals, stamps, musical instruments, calligraphy, palanquins, and ceremonial guards—providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of Korea’s history, culture, and way of life. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekends and public holidays, and from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Tuesdays through Fridays. It is closed on Mondays.

National Palace Museum of Korea

Must-visit reason: The best museum to understand Korean cultural life

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Korea[Korea]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Seoul Special City [Seoul Special City]

City where the attraction is located: Jongno-gu [Jongno-gu]