After more than 50 days of temporary closure due to COVID-19, national museums in Seoul have reopened on July 22 for public enjoyment.

Want to visit Seoul’s museums? Here’s some good news for you! The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters has decided to reopen public galleries, libraries, performance halls, and museums in Seoul on July 22 after weeks of temporary closure due to COVID-19. These facilities have undergone disinfection in July 20 and are now ready to accept visitors. Here’s what you need to know:
- Museums can only accommodate up to 30% of the visitor capacity.
- Guests must register and reserve their visit.
- The National Theater of Korea, National Gugak Center, and eight other performing arts halls will also reduce visitor capacity to 50%.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism encourages all visitors to maintain social distancing, wash their hands frequently, and wear masks.
National Museums in Seoul That You Can Visit Starting July 22
But first, here’s a tip! If you’d like to visit Hongdae’s Museum of Fruit, COEX Aquarium, or any other worthwhile attractions in Seoul, you can book your discounted tickets here!
1. National Museum of Korea

국립중앙박물관
. Credit: Ian MuttooStarting July 22nd, the National Museum of Korea will allow up to 300 people inside their Permanent Exhibition Hall and 70 people at the Children’s Museum per hour. They are open from 10am-6pm daily, except on Wednesdays and Saturdays when they extend late thru 9pm. For reservations, click here.
This grand museum in Seoul is located at 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 04383, Republic of Korea.
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2. National Folk Museum of Korea

The National Folk Museum of Korea, which is situated in Gyeongbokgung grounds, accepts online reservations via their website. The system is currently only available in Korean, but you may give them a call at 02-3704-3114 for assistance.
The National Folk Museum of Korea’s address is 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03045, Republic of Korea.
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Did you know you can have Indian curry, Greek yogurt, and Vietnamese noodles in Jongno? Check out these restaurants that offer them: Potala, Milky Yo, and Plus 84!
3. National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

Filled with displays of modern Korea, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History is the perfect place to visit if you want to learn about the significant events and figures that shaped the country as we know it today. Like the other national museums in Seoul, they can only fill 30% of their space’s capacity starting July 22. You’ll find more details here.
The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History is located in 198 Sejong-daero, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
4. National Palace Museum of Korea

See royal treasures and artifacts that date back from the Joseon Dynasty! If you want to visit the National Palace Museum of Korea soon, know that they can only accommodate up to 130 guests per hour from 10am-6pm. More information on their website here.
The National Palace Museum of Korea is also located near Gyeongbok Palace. Here’s their address: Hyojaro 12, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03045.
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Visit this Joseon-themed pub in Hongdae for a truly unique and satisfying experience!
5. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea

Featuring artworks and pieces by local artists, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul will enrich your understanding of Korea’s culture. They are open everyday except Monday from 10am-6pm. Visit their website here for more info and the hours and ticket fees.
The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea is located at 30 Samcheong-ro, Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03062.
Before you go
If you’re currently in Korea, you can use WAUG to find restaurants, attractions, and activities, as well as book them at a discount. Visit our website here and sign up now to get a ₩3,000 or $3 coupon!