One of Best Places to Visit in Seoul, South Korea Great Spots to Buy Souvenirs - NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

 

When the Korean language was first created, the king wrote explanations and principles for each consonant and vowel in a book. So that future generations could understand. This represents the pages of that book

While South Korea may not have as diverse and stunning landscapes or cultural heritage as China or Japan, it has its own set of rich advantages.  

One of the most remarkable benefits is the affordable transportation costs compared to other developed countries, and the convenience of being able to travel from the northernmost to the southernmost part of the country in just half a day.  

If you are currently in Seoul or planning to visit, there are plenty of places you can explore for at least a few days.

Korean metalwork from approximately 1,300 years ago. These appear to be crowns and ornaments used by kings and nobles.

 Among the many wonderful places, the National Museum is a truly remarkable destination. It generally operates until 6 PM, and admission is free. 

 Each exhibit is designed to facilitate an easy understanding of the 5,000-year history of Korea, showcasing artifacts that represent the nation and the passage of time. 

When I visited with a foreign friend, we were able to explore the galleries for about an hour. 

Photography is allowed here, but it's important to be considerate as some Koreans may feel slightly uncomfortable if they are included in your photos.  

However, don't worry too much about it.

The museum entrance with Namsan Tower visible in the distance.

The great thing about this place is that no matter where you are in Seoul, as long as there's a subway nearby, you can reach the museum for less than 2 dollars.  

The night view here is especially beautiful. Even if you find museum tours boring, there's one compelling reason to visit this place.

It's because the museum sells amazing Korean souvenirs that can only be purchased here.  

Let me introduce you to some popular items that are loved by Koreans as well.

Products sold at the National Museum of Korea.
Photo source: National Museum of Korea shop

This is a glass cup engraved with poetry by a resistance poet from the era when Korea was under Japanese rule.

 Unfortunately, during the dark times when Korea was occupied by Japan, there was a poet who resisted their invasion.  

You can find a glass cup featuring this poet's poem for 11,000 KRW (approximately 8 USD)

1,400 years ago, just before the fall of an ancient Korean kingdom, a ceremonial vessel with Taoist symbolism was buried in the ground by chance and preserved.  

You can find a miniature replica of this vessel for 99,000 KRW (approximately 72 USD).

"A soju glass featuring a painting depicting the aristocratic class of medieval Korea. It seems that Koreans in medieval times loved alcohol. When you pour liquid into this glass, their faces turn red as if they're drunk.

When filled with liquid, the small cup changes the man's face to a red color, depicting the appearance of an intoxicated scholar. 

It costs 26,000 KRW (approximately 19 USD).  

Due to its popularity, it may be difficult to find as it often sells out.  

However, you might be able to find it on a Korean second-hand trading platform at a slightly higher price

This is a thermal bottle made with the iridescent parts of seashells. We inlaid these pieces into dining tables and furniture, and they were traded at very high prices.

This doesn't seem to be  seashells patterns, but rather just ink wash paintings depicted. There are various types of souvenirs, and each has different materials and methods of expression.

Tumblers adorned with mother-of-pearl designs are available. Some feature floral patterns depicted in a medieval Asian art style.  

These tumblers cost 54,000 KRW (approximately 40 USD)

A medieval book that documented the principles of Hangeul creation

The recommended visit time is around 4 PM, which is the most ideal. Spend about an hour exploring the museum, then browse the shop.  

As the sun sets, head to a nearby spot and take photos of the night view with the Seoul Namsan Tower in the background.

A medieval book that documented the principles of Hangeul creation

These are paintings of mythical animals that were considered sacred in ancient Korea. There were four imaginary animals influenced by China, and each of them symbolized good fortune.

Here are a few brief precautions to keep in mind when visiting the National Museum of Korea: 

• 1. Use an app to book your taxi. From 7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM, it's rush hour, so use public transportation instead of taxis. It will take more than twice as long and cost twice as much compared to normal times.  
• 2. When I took a taxi, it cost around $8 for a 5 km ride. The traffic was good. 
• 3. Refer to the National Museum's address at https://www.museum.go.kr/site/eng/home. 4. Koreans may find it unpleasant to have their faces photographed. When taking pictures, please be careful not to expose their faces. 
• 5. They generally operate until 6 PM
• 6. You can get there for less than $2 using the bus or subway. The subway is the best option. 
•  7. Some merchandise items are likely to sell out early