National Museum of Korea 2025: Why the World Is Rediscovering It
Ranked among the world’s top museums, the National Museum of Korea is drawing record visitors in 2025. Explore what makes this Seoul icon a must-see for culture lovers worldwide—from immersive exhibits to souvenir hits.
Why the National Museum of Korea Is Trending
In the first half of 2025, the National Museum of Korea welcomed over 2.71 million visitors—a 64% increase from the previous year. International attendance reached 98,000, a record-breaking figure since its Yongsan relocation in 2005.
The museum's rise in popularity aligns with growing global interest in Korean culture, especially beyond K-pop and K-dramas. Visitors now seek authentic insights into Korea’s heritage—and this museum delivers.
World Ranking & Scale in 2025
As of 2025, the National Museum of Korea ranks among the world’s top 10 most-visited museums. It held 6th place globally in 2023 (4.18M visitors), 8th in 2024 (3.79M), and continues to rise in 2025.
With over 310,000 artifacts and a massive exhibition area of 138,000㎡, it's one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Asia—offering unmatched insight into Korea’s legacy.
Exhibits That Span Time
Permanent galleries chronologically explore Korea’s history—from prehistoric tools to Joseon dynasty porcelain. Each hall offers intuitive layouts, translated signage, and digital guides for international visitors.
In addition to regular thematic showcases, the museum partners with global institutions to host collaborative exhibitions, making each visit feel fresh.
Travel Tips & Yongsan Area Highlights
Entry is free for permanent exhibitions. The museum is easily accessible via Ichon Station (Line 4) and Yongsan Station (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line).
English audio guides and weekend multilingual tours are available. Visitors typically spend 1.5 to 4 hours here, depending on depth of exploration.
Don’t miss nearby stops:
- Yongsan Park — Serene greenery right next door
- War Memorial of Korea — A 10-minute walk for modern history buffs
- Itaewon — A multicultural district full of cafes and boutiques
Dr. Beau's Note
From global rankings to cultural depth, the National Museum of Korea is a shining example of Korea’s soft power. If you want a real cultural experience beyond Hallyu, start here—it’s Korea in context.
