War Memorial of Korea, Seoul - A grand building and pathway with flags.
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War Memorial of Korea Seoul

4.6
·18k reviews·, South Korea

Explore Korea's military history from ancient times to the Korean War with vast indoor exhibits and an impressive outdoor vehicle display. Free admiss...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.

CrowdLow
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War Memorial of Korea, Seoul - A grand building and pathway with flags.

War Memorial of Korea Seoul

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Korea's military history from ancient times to the Korean War with vast indoor exhibits and an impressive outdoor vehicle display. Free admission!

4.6
(18k reviews)

"A must-visit for history buffs, offering a comprehensive and poignant look at Korea's conflicts, all for free."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Admission is free! Open 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, closed Mondays. Plan for 2-3 hours.

🚗 Near Itaewon

Conveniently located near Itaewon, making it easy to combine with exploring that vibrant district.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Vehicle Display

Outdoor Vehicle Display

Outdoor Exhibition Area

See a vast collection of military hardware, including planes, tanks, and ships. A real treat for history buffs and kids alike!

Korean War Exhibition

Korean War Exhibition

Indoor Exhibition Halls

Immerse yourself in the history of the Korean War with detailed exhibits and artifacts. A poignant and educational experience.

Allied Support Memorial

Allied Support Memorial

Outdoor Plaza

Honor the international support Korea received during the war, with stones inscribed with contributions from allied nations.

Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Impact

The War Memorial of Korea in Seoul offers free entry, making it an accessible historical deep dive. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore its vast collections, from ancient conflicts to modern military history. It's a surprisingly comprehensive experience for a free attraction. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Korean War

While the Korean War is a major focus, the War Memorial of Korea covers conflicts dating back to the Bronze Age. Don't miss the impressive outdoor display of military vehicles like planes, boats, and tanks. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out after lunch.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Some of the must see places in Seoul 🇰🇷🫣 Book your travel activities on @Klook Philippines ‼️ Save more than 50% discount if you will purchase the Discover Seoul Pass or Klook Pass Seoul. This gives ...
@thatsojameela
98.1K likes • 2.6M views

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Admission is free! Open 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, closed Mondays. Plan for 2-3 hours. InstagramReddit

🚗 Near Itaewon

Conveniently located near Itaewon, making it easy to combine with exploring that vibrant district. Reddit

Seoul like a local! 🚨 Skip the Starfield Library and overpriced tourist traps like Myeongdong. Visit Namdaemun Market for authentic eats and bundle tickets to save big! 🎟️✨ #koreatravel #seoulguide #k...
@klook_usa
66.4K likes • 1.1M views
The War Memorial of Korea 🇰🇷 Visiting Hours: 09:30 ~ 18:00 Fees: Free 📍 Seoul, South Korea ⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ #seoul #korea #southkorea #korean #travel #trip #traveling #seoultrip #travelblogger #travelthewor...
seany.travel
145 likes • 1.3K views

📱 Interactive Games

Try the free 'Lost Soldier' escape room game on your phone for a unique museum experience! Instagram

🗺️ History Beyond Korean War

Explore conflicts from the Bronze Age onwards, not just the 1950-53 war. Reddit

The War Memorial of Korea ⚔️ 📍29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul ⏰09:30-18:00 (Closed every Monday) 💵 Free
ciel_bleu_coree
9 likes • 79 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Admission is free! Open 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, closed Mondays. Plan for 2-3 hours. InstagramReddit

🚗 Near Itaewon

Conveniently located near Itaewon, making it easy to combine with exploring that vibrant district. Reddit

📱 Interactive Games

Try the free 'Lost Soldier' escape room game on your phone for a unique museum experience! Instagram

🗺️ History Beyond Korean War

Explore conflicts from the Bronze Age onwards, not just the 1950-53 war. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially with the outdoor exhibits. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(18k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the War Memorial of Korea for its extensive historical exhibits and impressive outdoor collection of military vehicles, all offered at a remarkable free admission. While some find the sheer volume of information overwhelming, most agree it's a deeply educational and poignant experience, especially for those interested in military history and the Korean War. The interactive elements like the 'Lost Soldier' game add a modern touch to the historical journey.

"The museum starts with the powerful statue of the two brothers, it really sets an emotional tone right away. Outside, there are planes and military equipment that show the scale of the conflict

Inside, the exhibits are detailed and respectful, telling the stories of the soldiers and civilians affected by the war. It gives a much deeper appreciation of Korea’s history and bravery of those who fought"

Eunji Kim

"Very impressive, especially considering the access is free. If your country also participated in the U.N. forces in the Korean War, there’s a section contributed to those countries, with videos in each country’s languages. Fun to watch. Totally recommended when you visit Seoul."

KP PK

"They've done an excellent job curating the materials, making the history feel accessible and engaging. The interactive exhibits and videos really stood out. A highly recommended visit!"

Dennis Baldoria

What People Like

Free admission
Vast historical exhibits
Impressive outdoor vehicle display

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Requires significant time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The War Memorial of Korea is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Seoul Subway to Samgakji Station (Lines 1 and 6), which is a short walk away. It's also close to Itaewon, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

Yes, it's located in Yongsan-gu and is relatively close to the Itaewon district. Some travelers suggest it's within walking distance of the National Museum of Korea, making it possible to visit both in a day. Reddit+1

They are quite close, with a taxi ride taking about 10 minutes. Walking is also an option if you enjoy a stroll and have the time. Reddit

While the Discover Seoul Pass offers access to many attractions, the War Memorial of Korea has free admission, so a pass isn't necessary for entry. TikTok

Limited parking is available, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and the ease of access via subway. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The War Memorial of Korea offers free admission for all visitors, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for exploring Korean history. InstagramReddit

The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed every Monday. Instagram+1

No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can simply walk in during operating hours. Instagram

The museum often hosts special exhibitions and events. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on current displays and programs. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, with facilities like elevators and ramps. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits. Reddit+1

Don't miss the detailed Korean War exhibition, the impressive outdoor display of military vehicles (planes, tanks, ships), and the Allied Support Memorial. InstagramReddit

Yes, kids often enjoy the outdoor vehicle display. Additionally, the 'Lost Soldier' escape room game accessible via smartphone offers an interactive and fun way to engage with the museum's history. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions in certain exhibition rooms. Instagram

While heavily focused on the Korean War, the museum's scope extends to military history in Korea from ancient times (Bronze Age) through various conflicts. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The War Memorial of Korea has a cafeteria and a restaurant on-site, offering convenient dining options for visitors. Reddit

While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibition halls. Check with staff for current guidelines. Reddit

The museum is located near the Itaewon district, which is famous for its diverse international cuisine and numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options at the on-site cafeteria can be limited. It's advisable to check with the cafeteria staff upon arrival or explore the many diverse options available in nearby Itaewon. Reddit

On-site dining is typically reasonably priced for a museum cafeteria. For a wider range of prices and cuisines, exploring Itaewon offers more variety. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The outdoor vehicle display offers dramatic shots, especially with the planes. The Allied Support Memorial stones also make for meaningful photos. The architecture of the building itself is quite striking. InstagramReddit

Tripod usage might be restricted in certain areas to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival for their policy on tripods. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy photographing the large military aircraft and tanks outdoors. The 'Lost Soldier' escape room also offers a unique, interactive photo opportunity if you participate. InstagramReddit

Lighting varies by exhibition hall. Some areas are well-lit for general viewing, while others might have more atmospheric or dramatic lighting. Low-light photography skills can be beneficial. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for both indoor exhibits and outdoor displays. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the scale of the outdoor vehicles. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The War Memorial of Korea is a fantastic destination for families. The outdoor display of military vehicles like planes, tanks, and ships is a huge hit with children, offering plenty of space to explore and marvel at the machinery. Reddit The free admission makes it an economical choice for a family outing. InstagramReddit

Consider downloading the 'Lost Soldier' escape room game onto your phones before you go. This interactive experience turns a museum visit into an adventure, with kids helping to solve puzzles and uncover a story. Instagram It's a great way to keep younger visitors engaged and make learning about history fun and memorable. Instagram

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, the War Memorial of Korea is a must-visit. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of Korean military history, extending beyond just the Korean War to include conflicts from ancient times. Reddit The detailed indoor exhibits, complete with artifacts and informative displays, provide deep insights into the nation's past struggles and triumphs. Reddit

Don't miss the extensive outdoor collection of military hardware, which includes aircraft, tanks, and naval vessels. Reddit This tangible display allows for a closer examination of the tools of warfare throughout different eras. The Allied Support Memorial also offers a unique perspective on the international dimensions of conflict. Reddit+1

🚶 Budget Travelers

The War Memorial of Korea is an absolute gem for budget travelers, as admission is completely free! InstagramReddit This allows you to immerse yourself in significant Korean history without spending a won on entry fees. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Itaewon district, which offers a wide range of affordable dining options, from street food to international cuisine. Reddit Utilizing Seoul's efficient and inexpensive subway system to reach the museum is also a cost-effective travel strategy. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Korean Conflict

The War Memorial of Korea is far more than just a museum about the Korean War. As Reddit users point out, its scope extends to conflicts in Korea dating back to the Bronze Age.Reddit This comprehensive approach allows visitors to understand the long and complex military history of the peninsula. The indoor exhibitions are meticulously curated, offering a deep dive into various periods and battles. You'll find artifacts, dioramas, and detailed explanations that bring history to life. Reddit+1

One of the most striking aspects is the outdoor exhibition area, which features a vast array of military hardware. Visitors can get up close with planes, tanks, and even naval vessels, providing a tangible connection to the scale of past conflicts. This open-air display is a particular hit with families and those who appreciate military machinery. Reddit The Allied Support Memorial is another poignant section, where stones are inscribed with the names of countries that provided support during the Korean War, serving as a powerful reminder of international solidarity. Reddit+1

For a more interactive experience, consider the 'Lost Soldier' escape room game, accessible via your smartphone. This unique feature allows you to solve riddles and uncover memories, adding an engaging layer to your museum visit. Instagram It's a testament to the museum's effort to make history accessible and enjoyable for a modern audience. Instagram

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from the Community

Planning your visit to the War Memorial of Korea is straightforward, especially since admission is free.InstagramReddit Most travelers recommend dedicating 2 to 3 hours to explore the extensive collections, both indoors and outdoors. Reddit+1 The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM and is closed on Mondays. Instagram+1

Comfort is key, as you'll be doing a significant amount of walking, particularly when exploring the outdoor vehicle displays. Wearing comfortable shoes is a frequently cited tip from visitors. Reddit The museum's location in Yongsan-gu makes it easily accessible, and it's conveniently situated near the vibrant Itaewon district, known for its diverse dining and shopping options. Reddit This proximity allows for easy combination of visits, with some suggesting it's even walkable to the National Museum of Korea. Reddit

For those looking for a unique engagement, the free 'Lost Soldier' escape room game on your phone offers an innovative way to interact with the museum's content. Instagram This blend of historical learning and interactive fun is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram

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