Sejong & Admiral Yi Sun-sin Stories in Gwanghwamun, Seoul

In Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, you can find the “Sejong Cultural Center.” In the basement of the Sejong Cultural Center, you can find an exhibition space called “Sejong Story, Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story,” which literally covers the stories of “King Sejong” and “Admiral Yi Sun-sin.” This exhibition is a permanent installation and is free to visit, so anyone can enjoy it as long as they visit during the operating hours.

“Seoul Gwanghwamun: Sejong Story & Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story”

The entrance to the “Sejong Story & Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story” exhibition space may seem a bit unfamiliar. After entering the Sejong Cultural Center, if you follow the path leading to the basement, you can enter the exhibition space.

Alternatively, you can find your way by looking for the statue of King Sejong. If you go behind the statue of King Sejong, you’ll find an entrance below the statue, which leads to the “Sejong Story & Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story” exhibition hall.

“Sejong Story: Permanent Exhibition Space”

The space is divided into two parts. Using the central corridor as a reference point, it splits into “Sejong Story” on the left and “Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story” on the right.

Starting with Sejong Story, it literally covers the life, achievements, and inventions of King Sejong. In particular, it emphasizes King Sejong’s most significant achievement, which is the creation of Hangul (Korean alphabet).

During King Sejong’s reign, various inventions were also created. The exhibition also covers these creative inventions from the era of King Sejong.

“Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story”

The Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story deals with the life story of General Yi Sun-sin, focusing on the battles during the Imjin War where General Yi Sun-sin played a significant role.

Additionally, it exhibits the turtle ships that General Yi Sun-sin designed and built in anticipation of the Imjin War. It covers the details of the Panokseon, which was the flagship of the Joseon Navy at that time.

“Large-scale Turtle Ship”

In the center of the Admiral Yi Sun-sin Story exhibition hall, a large-scale turtle ship is displayed, allowing you to appreciate the form of the turtle ship from the inside.

Furthermore, as you explore the exhibition space, you can watch a video about the Imjin War. The video lasts for about 7 minutes.

“Children’s Experience Space”

There is also a designated space for children’s experiences. Depending on the timing, there are video games where children can virtually fire cannons and artillery. They also offer experiences where children can assemble miniature models of the Panokseon and turtle ships.

“Sejong, Admiral Yi Sun-sin Stories: Permanent Experience Programs”

In addition, there are ongoing experience programs. The participation fees are either 2,000 KRW or free, making them quite affordable.

Making a Hangul Badge: 2,000 KRW
Making a Keychain: 2,000 KRW
Making a Bokjumeoni (traditional Korean lucky bag): 2,000 KRW
Making a Magnetic Opener: 2,000 KRW
Making a Grip Talk (decorative accessory): 2,000 KRW
Writing Your Name in Hangul: Free

The experience of writing your name in Hangul is open to foreigners as well. It’s a great opportunity for foreigners visiting Korea to try writing their names in Hangul. However, the Hangul name-writing experience is available from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Overall, the space is quite spacious, allowing you to learn more about General Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong in greater detail. Especially for households with children, you can make time for a family visit to learn more about General Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong.

“Seoul Gwanghwamun Permanent Exhibition: Sejong, Admiral Yi Sun-sin Stories”