Incheon Chinatown: ‘Korea-China Cultural Center, Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum’

January 12, 2024 418 Views

Incheon Chinatown aptly earns its reputation as a small China within Korea. It encapsulates the history of overseas Chinese, who arrived in Korea after the opening of Incheon’s port.

Within Chinatown, a well-organized venue awaits those interested in the history of Incheon and its Chinese residents—the ‘Korea-China Cultural Center, Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum.’ Situated at the entrance of Chinatown, it opened its doors in April 2005.

“Artifacts Showcasing Chinese History, Culture, and Daily Life at the Korea-China Cultural Center”

The Korea-China Cultural Center exhibits a diverse array of artifacts showcasing Chinese history, culture, and daily life. This provides an opportunity to experience and appreciate Chinese culture without actually visiting China.

Local specialties and artworks donated by friendly cities such as Weihai and Qingdao symbolize the vibrant exchanges between the regional governments of Korea and China.

“A Five-Story Korea-China Cultural Center”

Located at the entrance of Chinatown and constructed in a Chinese architectural style, the Korea-China Cultural Center is a cultural space. It spans one underground floor and five above-ground floors, each equipped with various facilities. The first floor houses a planned exhibition room, the second floor hosts the Korea-China Cultural Exhibition Hall, the third floor features a promotional hall for friendly cities, and the fourth floor serves as a performance venue.

Korea-China Cultural Center Gallery (1F): Operates various themed exhibitions to enhance cultural and artistic activities of local artists involved in Korea-China exchanges. Gallery rental is also available.
Korea-China Cultural Exhibition Hall (2F): Introduces the history, culture, economy, and social life of China, showcasing artifacts related to Korea-China cultural exchanges.
Promotional Hall for Friendly Cities (3F): Introduces China-friendly exchange cities and showcases donation materials from each region. Also features spaces for experiencing traditional Chinese clothing ‘Qipao’ and traditional Chinese games ‘Qiguo Play.’ (Group reservations required)
Performance Hall (4F): Available for performances by local artists, seminars, public hearings, etc. (Seating capacity: 200)
Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum: Introduces the history of Chinese settlement in Incheon and conducts various themed exhibitions to promote cultural and artistic activities of local artists. (Connected to the 2nd floor of the Korea-China Cultural Center)

“Diverse Statues Related to the Three Kingdoms Period”

The Korea-China Cultural Center showcases various artifacts related to Chinese culture. Notably, on one floor, you can find statues of well-known figures from the Three Kingdoms period, such as Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei.

“Free Rental of Qipao”

On the 3rd floor, there is a traditional Chinese clothing experience room where you can freely borrow ‘Qipao’ and take commemorative photos. Especially noteworthy is the bronze carriage of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, located on the outdoor deck, providing a great background for certification shots.

“Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum”

Connected to the Korea-China Cultural Center is the Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum, a building that delves into the history of overseas Chinese alongside the modern history of Korea.

Operated by the Incheon Overseas Chinese Association, the Incheon Overseas Chinese History Museum allows visitors to immerse themselves in the essence of Chinese culture and explore the history of overseas Chinese who coexisted with Korea.

“Admission Fee”

Admission is charged. For individual adults visiting only the Korea-China Cultural Center, the fee is 1,000 won per person. A combined ticket is available for all five museums, including the Korea-China Cultural Center, priced at 3,400 won per person.

I personally purchased the combined ticket and had the opportunity to explore all five museums. However, due to time constraints, I needed to move briskly.

“Incheon Chinatown Korea-China Cultural Center”