National Folk Museum of Korea Seoul
Step back in time at the National Folk Museum of Korea, showcasing Korean life, culture, and the beloved 'Reply 1988' drama setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
National Folk Museum of Korea Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the National Folk Museum of Korea, showcasing Korean life, culture, and the beloved 'Reply 1988' drama setting.
"A free, nostalgic journey into Korean culture and the iconic 'Reply 1988' drama!"
🎟️ Free Admission!
Enjoy this incredible museum without any cost. A fantastic budget-friendly option in Seoul!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Reply 1988 Streetscape
Outdoor Exhibition Area
Step back in time to the vibrant streets of 1980s Seoul, recreated with incredible detail. A must-see for K-drama fans!
Traditional Korean Homes
Indoor Exhibition Halls
Explore authentic replicas of traditional Korean houses and learn about daily life across different eras.
Folk Beliefs and Rituals
Indoor Exhibition Halls
Discover the rich tapestry of Korean folk beliefs, shamanism, and ancient rituals through fascinating displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Gyeongbokgung Palace
Embrace the 'Reply 1988' Nostalgia
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Free Admission!
Enjoy this incredible museum without any cost. A fantastic budget-friendly option in Seoul!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits.
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
Perfect spot for photos, especially the 'Reply 1988' street. Bring your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine with Gyeongbokgung Palace for a full day of history and culture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Free Admission!
Enjoy this incredible museum without any cost. A fantastic budget-friendly option in Seoul!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits.
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
Perfect spot for photos, especially the 'Reply 1988' street. Bring your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine with Gyeongbokgung Palace for a full day of history and culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Folk Museum of Korea for its free admission and engaging exhibits, particularly the nostalgic 'Reply 1988' streetscape. Many appreciate the opportunity to learn about traditional Korean life and culture in an accessible way. Some note that it can get crowded, especially the popular street exhibit.
"One of the best museum in Seoul. Definitely worth to visit! Tips: audio guide or free volunteer tours, also they have small cafe with coffee and sandwiches. Plan half a day at least."
Solo Kate
"What impressed me the most was the care, love, and attention with which the exhibits in this museum were curated.
I didn’t expect to find so much useful and fascinating information.
What I especially loved were the visual comparisons — showing how things used to be and how they are now — a brilliant way to illustrate Korea’s transformation.
One particularly clever idea was tracing the evolution of a traditional Korean wedding “dress” to the modern bridal outfit.
I also really enjoyed the chance to sit on the terrace of a traditional hanok.
It’s the perfect museum for getting an intimate and meaningful look at the country and its way of life."
Nana Mananna
"The outdoor portion has 70s and 80s Korea. It's a great throwback. There are additional places you get to see the older Middle Ages Korean living spaces. The museum itself also displays great information on the culture and the living styles of Koreans both in the past and the 20th century. Great and neat place to visit."
Sion Han
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within Gyeongbokgung Palace. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Seoul Subway to Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5. From there, it's a short walk to the palace entrance.
While there is parking available at Gyeongbokgung Palace, it can be expensive and fill up quickly. Public transportation is highly recommended for easier access.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Seoul. You can tell your driver to take you to Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the museum is located within its grounds.
Line 3 of the Seoul Subway is your best bet. Alight at Gyeongbokgung Station, and follow the signs for the palace and museum.
Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds are generally accessible, and the museum has made efforts to accommodate visitors. However, some older structures might have limitations. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the National Folk Museum of Korea is completely free! This makes it a fantastic and accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
The museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (or later in summer months), but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally and on holidays.
The museum is usually closed on Tuesdays. It's advisable to confirm this on their official website before your visit to avoid disappointment.
The National Folk Museum of Korea is located within the Gyeongbokgung Palace complex. While admission to the museum is free, you may need to pay the entrance fee for Gyeongbokgung Palace itself if you wish to explore the palace grounds extensively before or after your museum visit.
The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collections. Check their website for details on current special exhibits that might interest you.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors recommend starting with the 'Reply 1988' streetscape for a fun, nostalgic experience, then exploring the indoor exhibits on traditional Korean life and folk beliefs.
To fully appreciate the exhibits, especially if you're interested in the 'Reply 1988' section and the detailed displays on Korean culture, plan for at least 2-3 hours.
While official guided tours might be limited, the exhibits are well-labeled and informative. Many visitors find it enjoyable to explore at their own pace or use audio guides if available.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect artifacts. Always look for signage.
The recreated 1980s street scene from 'Reply 1988' is a huge draw. Additionally, the displays on traditional housing, farming tools, and folk beliefs offer deep insights into Korean heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Reply 1988' streetscape is incredibly photogenic, offering a unique backdrop. The traditional Korean houses and courtyards also provide beautiful, culturally rich photo opportunities. 
Absolutely! The recreated street scenes and traditional settings are perfect for selfies and capturing your experience. Just be mindful of other visitors.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider street scenes and details. A prime lens (like a 50mm) can be useful for low-light indoor shots.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited within the palace grounds, including the National Folk Museum, due to security and preservation reasons.
Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making for cleaner shots. However, the 'Reply 1988' street can be atmospheric at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's displays on traditional homes and daily life are also engaging, with many visual elements that can capture children's attention. Pro-tip: Combine your visit with Gyeongbokgung Palace, as the palace grounds offer plenty of space for kids to run around. Pack snacks and water, as food options inside the museum are limited. The free admission makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious families exploring Seoul.
💖 Couples & K-Drama Fans
+1 It's a unique experience that taps into shared cultural interests. Beyond the drama-themed exhibit, the museum provides a deeper understanding of Korean culture, which can be a lovely shared learning experience. Consider visiting in the late afternoon for a more intimate atmosphere as crowds may thin out.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Combine it with a walk through Gyeongbokgung Palace (which has a separate entrance fee) or explore the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village for a full day of exploration. The museum's location makes it easy to integrate into a broader itinerary, and its informative displays provide great context for your Seoul adventures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Reply 1988' Experience
+1Many visitors, particularly those who love the drama, find this section to be a highlight. It's a fantastic spot for photos and for reminiscing about the show's heartwarming stories. The attention to detail in the recreation is often praised, making it feel like a genuine step back in time.
Beyond the 'Reply 1988' set, the museum's broader focus on Korean folk life provides context and depth. Understanding the historical period depicted in the drama enriches the visitor's appreciation for both the show and the museum's cultural offerings.
Exploring Traditional Korean Life
Visitors can wander through detailed displays of traditional Korean homes, gaining insight into the architecture and living arrangements of different social classes. The exhibits on farming and crafts highlight the ingenuity and hard work that characterized traditional Korean society. You'll also find fascinating sections dedicated to folk beliefs, shamanism, and the rituals that played a significant role in the lives of Koreans for centuries.
This deep dive into Korean heritage makes the museum an invaluable resource for understanding the country's cultural roots. It provides a rich historical context that complements the more modern pop culture elements, offering a well-rounded educational experience for all ages.
Museums in Seoul: A Comparative Look
The Palace Museum, often located within palace grounds like Gyeongbokgung, focuses specifically on artifacts and royal history related to the Joseon Dynasty. It provides a more focused look at the imperial past. The National Folk Museum, on the other hand, excels at showcasing the everyday lives, traditions, and popular culture of ordinary Koreans across various periods, with its unique 'Reply 1988' exhibit adding a contemporary pop culture twist.
Many travelers find that visiting the Folk Museum is a great way to get a feel for the common people's lives, which can be a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of palaces and royal artifacts. It's often recommended as a more accessible and relatable museum experience, especially for families or those looking for a more grounded cultural immersion.
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