logo
ic_menu

War Memorial of Korea

, Itaewon-ro, Seoul

Description

The War Memorial of Korea documents and display exhibits relating to the military history of Korea. It consists of several outdoor sculptures, indoor exhibition rooms as well as an outdoor area showcasing military equipment from China, South Korea and the USA. The Statue of Brothers, in the middle of the Plaza, is a metaphor of Korea's current division. The younger is a North Korean Soldier and the elder a South Korean one.

Access & Transport

The memorial is in the Yongsan district of Seoul, adjacent to Yongsan park and about 1.5km north from the banks of the Han River. Samgakji Station (4, 6) is about 300m away and Namyeong Station (1) about 10mins walk. There is a car park (paying) on site. Directions: https://www.warmemo.or.kr:8443/Eng/E10000/E10300/E10301/html

Instructions & Recommendations

If you don't mind more cultural activities, the National Museum of Korea is just across Yongsan Park. Alternatively, you could explore the Itaewon neighbourhood and take a walk up Namsan Mountain Park.

Meta review

A mainstay of travel guides and one of the best rated activities in Seoul by online reviewers. Interestingly, there is a variety of aspects that people compliment; for some it is the poignant outdoor statues, for others the impressive display of weaponry from the Korean War, and those keen on history actually tend to be drawn to the entire floor dedicated to the various invasions throughout Korea's history. The exhibits on the Korean War end to be very detailed and, at times, gruesome. Tips from reviewers: do not hesitate to break you visit in two visits and best to come here before taking a DMZ tour in order to cement your Korean historical background.

Environmental & Social

Low carbon footprint on a per visitor basis. Educational

Conclusion

The museum & memorial has a set of impressive monuments, sculptures, and military vehicles that is definitely worth a visit, not just for history buffs. A must-see in our book given the geopolitical situation on the Korean peninsula.

Key positive

Quality exhibits with good curation + educational

Easy to reach by public transport and free admission

Key negative

Could do with more contextual info around society and politics of the time

Suitability

Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. Not recommended for younger and sensitive children due to the topic and some exhibits

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission is 1h before closing

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:2h 15m

Regulated hours

Monday -

Tuesday09:30 - 18:00

Wednesday09:30 - 18:00

Thursday09:30 - 18:00

Friday09:30 - 18:00

Saturday09:30 - 18:00

Sunday09:30 - 18:00

Pricing
Free

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.