Leeum, Samsun Museum of Art Seoul
The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is run by the Samsung Foundation of Culture established in 1965. The foundation was started for the preservation of Korean art history and the exhibition of modern and contemporary works by Korean and foreign artists. It was started by late Samsung Chairman, Byung-Chull Lee. The name Leeum come from Mr. Lee’s name and the um of museUM.
The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is made up of 3 buildings designed by three internationally renowned architects, Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel and Rem Koolhaas. The buildings are called Museum 1, Museum 2 and the Samsung Child Education & Culture Centre. The Leeum Museum is located on the slopes of Namsan Mountain beside the Hyatt Hotel Seoul.
The museum holds traditional art from the pre-historic era to the Joseon Dynasty which includes metal work, Buddhist art, ceramics, paintings and calligraphy. There are 36 National Treasures and 79 Treasures located at the Leeum Museum. There is also a Modern Art section for Korean and Foreign work.
Museum 1 was designed by Mario Botta. This building is dedicated to the traditional Korean artwork and houses metal work, Buddhist art, ceramics, paintings and calligraphy.
Museum 2 was designed by Jean Nouvel. This building showcases modern and contemporary works by both Korean and foreign artists.
The Samsung Child Education & Culture Centre supplements the two Museums by contributing to the cultural education of our future leaders.
Opening Hours / Admission
Open 10:30 am – 18:00 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays. Last admission is 1 hr before closing time.
Admission
Permanent Exhibition
Adults: 10,000 won 19 years +
Youth: 6,000 won 7 -18 years
Special Exhibition
Adults: 7,000 won
Youth: 4,000 won
Special Day Pass for both is 13,000 won for adults and 8,000 won for youths
How to get to Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art:
Take line 6 to Hangangjin Station and leave exit 1. Head straight and take the 1st left and head up the windy hill to get to the museum. A taxi should only cost the minimum fare.
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