War Memorial of Korea Seoul
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
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
War Memorial of Korea Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.

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!
"A must-visit for history buffs, offering a comprehensive and poignant look at Korea's conflicts, all for free."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
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
Beyond the Korean War
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
📱 Interactive Games
Try the free 'Lost Soldier' escape room game on your phone for a unique museum experience!
🗺️ History Beyond Korean War
Explore conflicts from the Bronze Age onwards, not just the 1950-53 war.
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.
🚗 Near Itaewon
Conveniently located near Itaewon, making it easy to combine with exploring that vibrant district.
📱 Interactive Games
Try the free 'Lost Soldier' escape room game on your phone for a unique museum experience!
🗺️ History Beyond Korean War
Explore conflicts from the Bronze Age onwards, not just the 1950-53 war.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially with the outdoor exhibits. Wear comfy shoes!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Limited parking is available, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and the ease of access via subway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The War Memorial of Korea offers free admission for all visitors, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for exploring Korean history.
The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed every Monday.
No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can simply walk in during operating hours.
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.
The museum is generally accessible, with facilities like elevators and ramps. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Don't miss the detailed Korean War exhibition, the impressive outdoor display of military vehicles (planes, tanks, ships), and the Allied Support Memorial.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The War Memorial of Korea has a cafeteria and a restaurant on-site, offering convenient dining options for visitors.
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.
The museum is located near the Itaewon district, which is famous for its diverse international cuisine and numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars.
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.
On-site dining is typically reasonably priced for a museum cafeteria. For a wider range of prices and cuisines, exploring Itaewon offers more variety.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. It's a great way to keep younger visitors engaged and make learning about history fun and memorable.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the extensive outdoor collection of military hardware, which includes aircraft, tanks, and naval vessels. 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.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Itaewon district, which offers a wide range of affordable dining options, from street food to international cuisine. Utilizing Seoul's efficient and inexpensive subway system to reach the museum is also a cost-effective travel strategy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Korean Conflict
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. 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.
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. It's a testament to the museum's effort to make history accessible and enjoyable for a modern audience.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from the Community
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. 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. This proximity allows for easy combination of visits, with some suggesting it's even walkable to the National Museum of Korea.
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. This blend of historical learning and interactive fun is a highlight for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit