8 Iconic Art Spots in Seoul

Art is an universal language, so take a day to spend some time at an art gallery in Seoul. Here are 8 must-visit exhibition spaces, some of which are K-pop stars' favorites.

MMCA is known to be a favorite spot for BTS RM, who has visited multiple times. There are two museums of MMCA in Seoul, one in Deoksugung and the other in Gwanghwamun. The museum showcases and houses modern and contemporary art of renowned Korean and international artists. Exhibits often explore timely themes such as the environment and engineering.

Check out the exhibit of Korea's first female landscape architect, Jung Youngsun. This exhibit offers a comprehensive look at her iconic works, including those from the Daejeon Expo, Seonyudo Park, and Jeju Osulloc Tea Museum. Visitors can explore her artistic world through a variety of mediums, including screens, floor structures, and courtyard installations.

This exhibition is divided into three sub-themes: "The World of Objects," "Invisible Relationships," and "What Kind of Future." It offers a fascinating look at experimental works using familiar objects.

The tallest building in Korea, Lotte Tower, houses an art museum. The museum's streamlined structure allows visitors to enjoy the exhibits as if they were taking a leisurely walk. It primarily showcases experimental and innovative contemporary art, with occasional exhibitions related to Seoul. It’s a great spot to visit along with the nearby restaurants, shops, and observation deck in Lotte World Tower.

Step into the future a thousand years from now with the works of Daniel Arsham. This exhibition includes collaborative pieces with the Pokémon franchise and features new paintings and drawings created specifically for the Seoul exhibition.

Loved by Korean celebrities like BTS and BLACKPINK, this private museum is owned by Korea's largest corporation, Samsung. It’s renowned as one of Korea’s top art museums, boasting a vast collection that spans from Korean national treasures and traditional antiquities to contemporary art.

Even for free exhibitions, you must obtain a ticket either online or on-site. Digital guide devices are available for free rental in the lobby, so be sure to bring your passport if you wish to use one.

Dive into the world of traditional Korean art from the prehistoric era through the Joseon Dynasty. This permanent exhibition is always available, showcasing over 120 pieces, including ceramics, paintings, and Buddhist statues across 4 floors.

Explore the world of Anicka Yi, a Korean-American conceptual artist whose work blends art with fragrance, cuisine, and science. This forward-thinking and experimental exhibition challenges the boundaries between art and non-art, and between humans and non-humans.

Famous among the 20s and 30s in Korea, Ground Seesaw is known for its trendy and vibrant exhibits, ranging from character art and photography to media art. It's a great spot for first-time visitors or those looking to spend a quality time at a exhibit.

Inspired by the short story "Symbiosis Theory" from "If We Cannot Move at the Speed of Light" by acclaimed Korean science fiction author Kim Choyeop, this exhibition features seven chapters created by 7 artists, depicting the journey to utopia through 3D art, motion graphics, and digital art.

Explore both contemporary art and historical Korean architecture. The museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions, featuring works from iconic Korean artists like Lee Jung Seop to internationally renowned sculptors. Connected to the museum is Seokpajeong, a beautiful pavilion built during the Joseon Dynasty, nestled within a serene garden.

An art collection featuring works by prominent artists in Korean art history, including Lee Jung Seop and Sin Saimdang. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the era’s spirit and the personal emotions of the artists reflected in their works.

Exhibition centered around the theme of "light," featuring various forms of contemporary art, including media art, sculptures, and paintings. The works explore the symbolism of light in philosophy, literature, and more.

Pace Gallery is a global gallery, located in New York, London, Seoul, and Hong Kong. It’s known for hosting numerous solo exhibitions by emerging artists, offering visitors the chance to experience bold and unique displays. One of the biggest perks of this gallery is that the admission is free. Located near Itaewon and Hangangjin stations, it’s also close to the Samsung Museum of Art, Leeum.

Originally a museum displaying art collected by the founder of Amorepacific, the company behind Korean beauty brands like Etude, Innisfree, and Laneige, this venue has been reborn as a modern art museum. The building also houses Innisfree Café, Osulloc Café, and the Amore Store, all part of the Amorepacific family, making it a great spot to explore both art and beauty.

This museum, featured in the popular Korean variety show "You Quiz on the Block" during BTS's episode, is set within traditional Korean houses that have been relocated and transformed into a museum. The setting itself is unique and beautiful. Visits are by reservation only and conducted as guided tours. Keep in mind that entry is only allowed during the scheduled tour times.