Winter in Korea, especially around the end of the year and early January, is cold enough to make you want to stay indoors. When the air turns sharp and still, I find myself gravitating toward indoor escapes museums, galleries, quiet places where the world slows down a little.

This time, I visited the Leeum Museum of Art (Hannam-dong, Seoul), a place I’ve long admired. It’s located near Hangangjin Station (Line 6), just a short walk from Exit 1, with signs that guide you along the way.

As I stepped through the main gate and into the lobby, I was immediately struck by the space itself, a work of art by world-renowned architect Mario Botta. The design is bold yet calming, making the entrance feel like a prelude to everything that follows.

Though it was freezing outside, the inside was warm and quiet. I stored my coat and bag in a free locker on the first floor (available for two hours) and stepped into the exhibit with light shoulders and an open mind.

The museum is structured so that you take the elevator up to the 4th floor, then slowly work your way down. Thankfully, it wasn’t crowded, just the peaceful hum of a weekday afternoon.

Although the Leeum Museum’s special exhibitions usually require a paid ticket, there were no special exhibitions during my visit, so only the Traditional Korean Art was available for viewing (admission free).

 

Long-necked Bottle Stoneware (Goryeo Dynasty, 12th century)

 

Maebyeong (Goryeo Dynasty,13th century)

 

 

Ewer Decorated with Flower Scrolls Stoneware (Goryeo Dynasty)

 

Jar Decorated with Dragons and Clouds (Joseon Dynasty, 18th century)

Moon Jar (Joseon Dynasty, 18th century)

Bottle Decorated with Scrolls Buncheong (Joseon Dynasty, 16th century)

Jar Decorated with Peonies Buncheong (Joseon Dynasty, 15th century)

Compared to those in National museum of Korea, the Leeum Museum’s collection feels more refined and thoughtfully curated, which made the viewing experience all the more satisfying.

 

Exhibition : Sutra and Box: Vessels of Enlightenment (24.09.05 ~ 25.02.23)

 

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Goryeo Dynasty, 14th century)

 

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Joseon Dynasty)

 

Buddha Triad (Joseon Dynasty, 15th century)

 

Portrait of Kim Jeong-hui (Joseon Dynasty, 19th century)

 

Flower-shaped Octagonal Case & Tray (Joseon Dynasty, 14-15th century)

 

 

I had hoped to spend more time exploring the museum building itself, it’s known for its impressive architecture, blending modern forms with subtle traditional nods but some areas were under renovation, so the access was partially restricted. Still, the hour I spent inside passed gently and meaningfully.

If you're looking for a warm, quiet, and inspiring way to spend a winter afternoon in Seoul, Leeum Museum of Art is an excellent choice. Whether you're into historical art or just love exploring beautiful spaces, this museum offers a rich, thoughtful experience.

 

Address : 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul  OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Tel : +82-2-2014-6900

Operation Hours : Tuesday-Sunday : 10:00 - 18:00 (Monday closed)

Admission Fee : Free

Website : leeum.org

Instagram : Check out more photos

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/titoms20/223740987742

Writer : titoms20

Special thanks to titoms20

 

leeum museum seoul itaewon hannamdong

​