
Visiting Seoul for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Seoul captures the imagination—here's how to make the most of the South Korean capital.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Seoul, but not all visitors realize that the on-site National Folk Museum is included with palace admission. The permanent collection is divided into three themed areas covering the traditional Korean way of life, Korean life during the Joseon dynasty, and the life cycle of Koreans. Many guided walking tours of the palace include a visit to the museum. These tours can be combined with other Seoul attractions, such as Bukchon Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, or some of the other royal palaces in the city.
The National Folk Museum of Korea is a popular option for history lovers and those interested in Korean culture.
Admission to the museum is included in your ticket to Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Audio guides in English are available for rent from the information desk; an ID is required.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs and strollers are available free of charge.
The National Folk Museum of Korea is located on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace and is well-connected by public transportation. Take line 3 of the Seoul Subway to Anguk or Gyeongbokgung or line 5 to Gwanghwamun. Several public buses also stop in the Sejong-ro area.
The National Folk Museum of Korea is open daily throughout the year, though hours vary by season. Head to the museum upon entering the palace complex first thing in the morning to browse the collection without the crowds.
Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as one of the most impressive of Seoul’s Joseon dynasty palaces. You could easily spend half a day touring the complex, which includes a changing of the guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun and the National Palace Museum of Korea, in addition to the National Folk Museum of Korea.