Korea’s cultural cornerstone: Nat’l museum sees record number of global visitors
Date Dec 26, 2024
The exhibition “Sculpted Celadon of the Goryeo Dynasty” (Photo courtesy of Yonhap News)
The National Museum of Korea is experiencing unprecedented international acclaim, ranking sixth among world museums in terms of total visitor numbers with 4.18 million guests last year, according to a prominent art magazine. This momentum has carried through into 2024, with the museum welcoming 95,000 foreign visitors in just the first half of the year – a 55.6 percent increase from 2019. Museum officials anticipate reaching the milestone of 200,000 foreign visitors by year’s end, which will mark a new chapter in the institution’s history.
The museum’s growing appeal stems from its masterful blend of Korean heritage and contemporary-style curation. A cornerstone of this approach is the new permanent exhibition space dedicated to the Uigwe, the royal protocol books from the Oegyujanggak archives. Located in the Calligraphy and Painting Gallery, on the second floor, this innovative space features the use of digital technology to illuminate the royal documents’ historical significance. Taking visitors on an immersive journey through Korea’s royal traditions, the exhibition is the culmination of extensive research and curatorial expertise.
A visitor examines a digital exhibit in the Oegyujanggak Uigwe Gallery. (Photo courtesy of Yonhap News)
Current special exhibitions exemplify the museum’s commitment to showcasing Korean cultural excellence. “Sculpted Celadon of the Goryeo Dynasty” highlights the sophisticated artistry of Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) celadon, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the technical mastery and aesthetic refinement of these celebrated ceramics. The exhibition “Geumsa-ri: where Moon Jars were made” explores the heritage of Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) moon jars produced at Geumsa-ri, Gyeonggi-do Province, providing deep insights into these iconic artifacts. Both exhibitions demonstrate the museum’s ability to present historical artifacts in a way that resonates with and engages modern audiences.
The museum’s recent facility upgrades reflect its dedication to meeting international accessibility standards. Upgraded navigation systems, comprehensive multilingual guides and state-of-the-art interactive displays ensure that visitors from all backgrounds can fully engage with the exhibitions. These improvements have significantly contributed to the museum’s reputation among foreign tourists, who frequently highlight their visit as a memorable experience of Korean culture.
International visitors listen to explanations from the exhibition guide robot QI (left); international visitors participate in an exhibition tour program (right). (Photos courtesy of the National Museum of Korea)
The National Museum of Korea’s successful integration of traditional heritage and modern presentation techniques has established it as a leading cultural institution. Its galleries foster cross-cultural understanding by serving as dynamic spaces where contemporary audiences can appreciate and connect with Korea’s artistic legacies. This achievement in cultural preservation and presentation positions the museum for continued growth and influence globally. As visitor numbers continue to rise, the museum will stand as a testament to Korea’s commitment to sharing its rich cultural heritage with the world and maintaining visitor engagement and best practices for museums.
The institution’s impact extends beyond mere numbers, as it plays a crucial role in cultural diplomacy and international exchanges. Through its comprehensive approach to exhibition design, visitor services and public engagement, the museum has created an environment where Korea’s cultural narrative unfolds naturally for diverse audiences. This success story reflects broader trends in cultural tourism and best practices for museums, with institutions working to achieve both historical authenticity and accessibility. As the National Museum of Korea continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it will strengthen its position as a vital bridge between Korea’s rich past and global future.
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