2025 Korea Museum Week: Free & Discounted Art for Foreigners

What Is Museum & Art Week?

Museum & Art Week (박물관·미술관 주간) is a national event supported by Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

You can find the full list of participating museums and programs on the official event website.

What’s the purpose?
To make art and culture more accessible — for everyone, including foreigners.

What happens during this week?

• Free or discounted entry to museums and galleries

• Special exhibitions and cultural events

• Hands-on experience programs

It’s a great way to explore Korean history, crafts, and modern art — without spending much.
Whether you’re new to Korea or have been here a while, this week is your chance to dive into local culture.

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When and Where Is It Happening?

🔳 Date:
May 24–June 2, 2025 (10 days)
Ten full days to enjoy art and culture across Korea.

🔳 Locations:
More than 260 museums and galleries are participating.
You’ll find them in:

• Seoul

• Busan

• Incheon

• Jeju

• And many smaller towns and regions

🔳Accessibility:
Most venues are easy to reach by public transport.
Many offer English-language guides, signs, or audio tours, so you don’t need to worry if your Korean isn’t perfect.

If you’ve been wanting to explore a new city or take in some culture, this is the perfect excuse.

Visit the Official Website

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Who Can Get the Discounts?

Good news: The benefits are open to everyone — including foreigners.

You don’t need to be a Korean citizen to enjoy free or discounted entry during Museum & Art Week.

Things to keep in mind:

• No special ID or residency status is required

• In most cases, you just show up during the event period

• Some places may ask for online reservations in advance

• A few programs might be limited in language (mostly in Korean), but entry discounts still apply

So whether you're a tourist, student, or long-term expat, you’re welcome to join.

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Types of Benefits You Can Enjoy

Here’s what you can expect during the week:

1. Free Admission
Many public museums and galleries offer 100% free entry for all visitors during this period.

2. Discounted Tickets
Some private museums or special exhibitions may offer 20%–50% off regular ticket prices.

3. Special Exhibitions
Temporary shows that are only available during this event — often themed around Korean culture, history, or art.

4. Cultural Experience Programs
Workshops like calligraphy, traditional crafts, or guided tours.
Note: Some of these may require registration in advance or have limited English support.

5. Extended Opening Hours
A few museums stay open later than usual to welcome more visitors.

Check each museum’s official website for the exact benefits — they may differ slightly by location.

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Top Picks for Foreign Residents in Korea

Not sure where to start?
Here are some of the most popular and foreigner-friendly museums and galleries you can visit during Museum & Art Week.

1. National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
Korea’s largest museum.
Perfect for learning about Korean history and culture — with excellent English signage and audio guides.Visit the official English website for current exhibitions and visiting info.

2. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)
Multiple locations in Seoul, Gwacheon, and Cheongju.
 Features contemporary Korean and international art. Learn more on MMCA’s English site.

3. Seoul Museum of History
Learn how Seoul has changed over the centuries.
Easy to navigate, centrally located, and often includes interactive exhibits.

4. Busan Museum of Art
Located near Haeundae.
Great if you’re living in or visiting the southern part of Korea.

5. Jeju National Museum
A unique chance to explore the distinct culture of Jeju Island.
A good stop if you’re planning a trip to Jeju during the event period.

6. Gyeonggi Provincial Museum
Located just outside of Seoul.
Less crowded, with plenty of family-friendly exhibitions and cultural experiences.

7. Daegu Art Museum
A great option for those in central Korea.
It often features regional artists and rotating exhibitions with English materials.

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How to Plan Your Visit Smartly

To make the most of Museum & Art Week, a little planning goes a long way.
Here’s how to enjoy the experience smoothly and avoid common issues.

1. Check the Official Website of Each Venue
Not all museums offer the same benefits.
Before you go, check the museum’s official site (many have English pages) to confirm dates, ticket policies, and special programs.

2. Make a Reservation if Needed
Some popular museums may require online reservations, especially for special exhibitions or workshops.
This is more common in places like MMCA or the National Museum of Korea.

3. Avoid Peak Hours
Weekends and afternoons tend to get crowded.
For a quieter experience, try visiting on weekday mornings.

4. Use Public Transport
Most museums are located near subway stations or major bus stops.
Use apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap with English settings for directions.

5. Prepare a Few Korean Phrases
Staff are usually helpful, but not all speak English fluently.
Phrases like “Do you have an English guide?” or “Where is the exhibition hall?” can come in handy.

6. Bring Your ARC or Passport (Just in Case)
Even though foreigner access is generally open, some museums may ask for ID when offering discounted or free admission.

7. Travel Light
Security checks and locker areas can be a hassle.
Avoid bringing large bags if you plan to move between multiple venues in one day.

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Bonus: Apps and Etiquette Tips for Museum Visits

Useful Apps for a Smooth Visit

• Naver Map or KakaoMap
  These are the most reliable navigation apps in Korea. Both offer English versions and show detailed directions, including which subway exit to take.

• Papago
  A powerful translation app by Naver. It works well with Korean museum signs and brochures. You can even take pictures of text for instant translation.

• VisitKorea App
  Run by the Korea Tourism Organization. Offers listings of major museums and events, often with English descriptions and travel tips. You can also check Visit Korea for a list of participating museums, cultural events, and updates in English.

• Museum's Official App
  Some large museums have their own mobile apps to enhance your visit.

  For example:
  The National Museum of Korea offers an app with AR content, multilingual audio guides, and exhibition maps.
  → Download for Android | Download for iOS

  The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) also provides an app with QR ticketing, real-time navigation, and audio tours.
  → Download for Android

✔︎ Basic Etiquette in Korean Museums

• Stay quiet inside the exhibition halls
  Speaking in a low voice is expected. Phone calls should be taken outside.

• No food or drinks allowed
  Even water bottles are usually not allowed inside exhibit areas.

• Follow the photography rules
  Some museums allow photos; others strictly prohibit them. Look for the signs or ask a staff member if you're not sure.

• Keep your distance from the artwork
  Even if it’s not behind glass, avoid getting too close. Many places use motion sensors or alarms.

• Respect the flow of traffic
  Korean museums often have a suggested path through the exhibition. Try to follow the arrows or the flow of visitors to avoid confusion.

These small gestures help you enjoy your visit without disrupting others — and leave a good impression too.

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Living in Korea is more than just food and K-dramas.
It’s also about discovering the stories, art, and history that shape everyday life here.

Museum & Art Week is your chance to explore all of that — for free or at a discount.
You don’t have to be an art expert. You just have to be curious.

So whether you’re into ancient artifacts, modern installations, or simply looking for a peaceful weekend activity, give this event a try.
Bring a friend, take your time, and see Korea through a different lens.

Culture shouldn’t feel distant or expensive — and during this special week, it isn’t.