Located within the Olympic Park, Seoul’s largest park in Songpa, you can find the “Hanseong Baekje Museum.” This is where the ancient kingdom of Baekje once thrived during the Hanseong Baekje era.
Within the Olympic Park, you can discover the traces of Hanseong Baekje, represented by Mongchontoseong, and the artifacts related to it are exhibited at the “Hanseong Baekje Museum,” which also provides information about the history.
“The Hanseong Baekje Museum”
The Hanseong Baekje Museum is a facility with a total of five floors, including three underground and two above ground. The permanent exhibition covers the history from pre-Baekje to its establishment, decline, and beyond, with a focus on Seoul’s prehistoric and ancient cultures. The Hanseong Baekje Museum opened on April 30, 2012.
“The Former Capital of Baekje, Hanseong”
Seoul served as the capital of Baekje for 493 out of the kingdom’s 678-year history. It was the initial capital chosen by ancient Baekje. Even today, remnants of the Hanseong Baekje era, such as Pungnaptoseong, Mongchontoseong, and Seokchondong Ancient Tombs, are scattered throughout current-day Seoul. The Hanseong Baekje Museum gathers various artifacts related to Baekje in one place for display.
“The Relatively Less-Known Hanseong Baekje”
When people think of Seoul, they usually associate it with the capital of the Joseon Dynasty. This is because many relics related to the Joseon Dynasty, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace, can be found in areas like Jongno and Gwanghwamun. In contrast, the history of Hanseong Baekje, which was also a significant ancient capital, may feel more distant, and the area of Songpa, its main stage, may seem somewhat secluded compared to Gwanghwamun. Furthermore, since it is an area with many ancient relics, there are not as many remnants remaining up to modern times.
In a way, the museum serves as a fortunate place where spaces that could easily be forgotten can be recalled in memory through its exhibitions.
“An Educational Venue for Children”
The Hanseong Baekje Museum offers a spacious environment and exhibits related to Baekje and the Three Kingdoms period, making it an excellent educational venue for children. The exhibition content is tailored to children’s understanding, providing an opportunity for them to learn about the history of Baekje while exploring the museum.
I noticed families with children exploring the museum throughout various sections. Moreover, even for adults, especially those interested in Baekje, history, and relics, it is a place that should not be missed.
“Seoul Songpa History Museum, Hanseong Baekje Museum”
- Address: 71 Wiryeseong-daero, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05540, South Korea
- Phone Number: 02-2152-5800
- Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Website: https://baekjemuseum.seoul.go.kr
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