This is a relatively new and medium-sized museum, opened in 2013 after much controversy about its potential contents. There is little agreement on what happened in the 20th century, and it was very difficult to create this museum. There is not much English on the displays, so you really need an expert familiar with the truths to take you through it and point out the important details, and explain what is distorted in presentation and what has been entirely left out due to sensitivity.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
any hotel or public place
- The museum is in the NE corner of the Gwanhwamun Plaza, central downtown Seoul, easy to get to.
Museum main Gallery
Main Gallery of the Museum, one long series.
Ending Point
Museum Exit, or your hotel.
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide fee, meet-up to start (hotel, etc)
There is no admission fee.
Transportation
Food
I have been a guide in it many times, and am an expert on its displays. I can guide you all through the main exhibit hall, focusing according to your particular interests, offering deep commentary so that you understand everything you're looking at quite thoroughly -- and telling colorful stories from each decade. We can move faster or slower, as you wish. There is a good café inside, and a Children's Room; with great restaurants nearby. This tour is set at 2:30 hours, but it could be anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, with prices adjusted accordingly -- just let me know if you want a custom tour with special timing.
It is closed on most Mondays.
I do this full-time now, any day -- but only in Spring & Autumn.
I have been a Professor of Korean Cultural Tourism in Seoul, and a Tour-guide, Lecturer and Author on Traditional Cultural Sites, especially religious ones, on the high-end, for 25 years. Wrote the 1996-7 edition of Lonely Planet's KOREA guidebook!
Rocío B.
“All you need to know about Seul”
David was a perfect guide that answered all our questions about Seul. Took us to the nicest places and show us really special ones. We are glad Elle could be our guide! Thanks David.
Alfonso S.
“A real American profesor in Korean culture ”
It was so incredible to find out the decades on experience and studies that David has cultivated and even published about Korea history, customs and culture, that we have had the best three days in Seoul in company of this loving living Profesor. We had such a magnificent experience and learned so many aspects of this wonderful people and their history that we are going back home with so much information and loving experiences that made this trip memorable thanks to David. You are a great guide and even more an incredible unique human being. Thank you for being who you are with us.
Debra D.
“Enlightening Temple Tour with an Exceptional Guide”
Our visit to the temple was truly lovely , thanks to our gracious tour guide, David. He is not only knowledgeable but also organized, polite, and kind. The tour was thoughtfully planned, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the temple’s serene atmosphere and rich history. Our guide’s extensive knowledge of the temple’s spiritual, religious, and historical significance brought each detail to life. We learned about centuries-old traditions, the meaning behind various rituals, and the temple’s unique place in Korean culture. David has a genuine passion for sharing the temple’s story. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an insightful and meaningful temple visit in South Korea.
David a. M.
THANKS, Debra! You two were excellent listeners, and so very nice... Please continue to fall in-love with Korea during the rest of your stay! David
$315/ per group