In the vicinity of Gyeongbokgung, the primary royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and its surrounding area, various museums can be explored. Within Gyeongbokgung itself, you’ll find two museums: the National Folk Museum and the National Palace Museum of Korea.
The National Palace Museum of Korea is located west of Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung, and is adjacent to Exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station on Subway Line 3.
“Seoul Gyeongbokgung Museum, National Palace Museum of Korea”
The origins of the National Palace Museum of Korea trace back to 1908 when it was established as the Imperial Household Museum (제실박물관) within Changgyeonggung Palace during the time of the Korean Empire. After the Liberation, it transformed into the Deoksugung Museum of Art (이왕가미술관), later moving to Seokjojeon Hall in Deoksugung Palace.
Following various name changes, including “Deoksugung Office” in 1961, it was eventually transformed into the Deoksugung Palace Office in 1992. With the relocation of the National Central Museum to Yongsan-gu in 2005, it became the present National Palace Museum of Korea, situated within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung.
“Square Glass Lanterns of the National Palace Museum of Korea”
In June 2020, the museum unveiled its collection of square glass lanterns online. The positive response led to the release of DIY models in the latter half of 2020, quickly selling out. The government official who planned this product received the Presidential Award for Public Service Excellence.
“Exhibiting Artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty, the Korean Empire, and the Japanese Occupation Era”
The National Palace Museum of Korea primarily exhibits artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty to the Japanese Occupation era, including items related to the royal family and attire. Additionally, historical items from the earlier Joseon period, such as royal seals, can be explored. On the B1 level, a restored model of Jagyeongnu, an automatic water clock, is displayed, and visitors can experience the sounds of bells, drums, and gongs.
“Jagyeongnu: Vehicle Used by King Sunjong and Empress Sunjeonghyo”
At the center of the museum, you’ll find the vehicle used by King Sunjong and Empress Sunjeonghyo during the Joseon era. This well-preserved Cadillac limousine, manufactured by General Motors in 1918, is a rare and significant vehicle, registered as Cultural Heritage No. 319.
“Free Admission to the National Palace Museum of Korea”
The National Palace Museum of Korea operates with free admission. It’s a popular spot for those visiting Gyeongbokgung, offering high-quality exhibitions that leave visitors satisfied. Despite being a free venue, it impresses with its high-quality displays, and Wednesday and Saturday night openings provide an opportunity for late visits. Having visited about ten years ago and again recently, the exhibition of King Sunjong and Empress Sunjeonghyo’s vehicle left a lasting impression.
It’s an excellent place to explore while touring Gyeongbokgung, and despite being free, the museum maintains a high standard of exhibition quality. The Wednesday and Saturday night openings provide a unique experience for visitors exploring the area.
“Seoul Gyeongbokgung, National Palace Museum of Korea”
- Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: 02-3701-7500
- Operating Hours: (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun, Holidays) 10:00 – 18:00 / (Wed, Sat) 10:00 – 21:00
- Website: https://www.gogung.go.kr/gogung/main/main.do