National Maritime Museum of Korea
국립해양박물관
About
Four floors of maritime history, ship models and maps, plus an aquarium tunnel and rooftop sea views.
The most memorable moment at the National Maritime Museum of Korea is looking up in the aquarium tunnel as large rays and sharks pass overhead. It is a brief encounter—the tunnel is short, and the tanks are easy to see quickly—but it gives the visit a clear focal point. The aquarium is on an upper floor, above galleries that spread maritime history, navigation, maps and ship models across four floors. Take time with the permanent and special exhibitions, then go to the rooftop observation deck for open views of the sea. The museum is spacious and comfortable to move through, and its mix of displays makes it a practical indoor outing with children. The balance has shifted, though: some visitors find the exhibits thinner than the building suggests, and say media-art displays have displaced hands-on activities after renovation. Some exhibits may also be under renovation, so expect a mix rather than a complete run of galleries. A cafeteria is available inside. The 4D cinema is an extra-cost option at about ₩5,000; visitors differ on whether the experience is worth it, and some find the seats hard on the back. General admission is free. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday, 09:00–18:00, and Saturday and Sunday, 09:00–19:00; it is closed Monday. The separate children's museum requires an online reservation, available up to 30 days ahead. Infants under 36 months also need a booking with a guardian, and walk-in standby entry depends on spare places. Parking is available: ₩2,000 for the first 180 minutes, then ₩100 per 10 minutes, capped at ₩10,000 for the day. Allow time for several floors rather than treating it as a quick aquarium stop. It suits families and anyone wanting a free, weather-proof look at Korea's maritime history, but visitors seeking lots of hands-on exhibits may leave wanting more.
Local tips
- Book the children's museum online up to 30 days ahead.
- Reserve a place for infants under 36 months and their guardian.
- Check the opening day before visiting; the museum is closed Monday.
- Allow time for the four floors, aquarium and rooftop deck.
- Budget ₩2,000 for the first 180 minutes of parking.
Details
Opening hours
- Sunday
- 09:00–19:00
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 09:00–18:00
- Wednesday
- 09:00–18:00
- Thursday
- 09:00–18:00
- Friday
- 09:00–18:00
- Saturday
- 09:00–19:00