간송미술관
Korea's first private art museum, founded by Kansong Jeon Hyeong-pil (1906-1962); born into one of Seoul's wealthiest families, he chose to spend his entire fortune rescuing Korean cultural treasures from being lost overseas during the Japanese colonial period. Completed in 1938 in the Bohwagak building designed by pioneering modern architect Park Gil-ryong, the museum holds over 10 National Treasures. Kansong's dedication was extraordinary: he purchased the Hunminjeongeum Haeryebon; the original manuscript explaining the Korean alphabet; on the spot for 10,000 won, equivalent to ten houses at the time. During the Korean War, he carried it in a paulownia box pressed against his chest throughout his evacuation. In 1937, he bought back 20 Goryeo celadon pieces from a British lawyer in Japan for 400,000 won (the price of 400 houses), bringing them home to Korea. The museum also houses masterworks of Joseon painting; Shin Yun-bok's 'Portrait of a Beauty,' Kim Hong-do's works, and Jeong Seon's true-view landscapes. A place where one man's devotion saved a nation's cultural heritage. Exhibition schedules should be checked on the museum's website in advance.
Highlights
- Korea's first private art museum, opened 1938 in Seongbuk-dong
- The Hunminjeongeum Haeryebon, the original Hangul manuscript
- Check the exhibition schedule on the website before you go
Details
- Address
- 102-11 Seongbuk-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
- District
- 성북구
- Opening Hours
Monday Closed Tuesday 10:00 to 18:00 Wednesday 10:00 to 18:00 Thursday 10:00 to 18:00 Friday 10:00 to 18:00 Saturday 10:00 to 18:00 Sunday 10:00 to 18:00 - Reservation
- Required
Location
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