Leeum Museum of Art is a private museum in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, opened in 2004 by the Samsung Cultural Foundation and regarded as one of Korea's leading art institutions. Its three buildings, designed by star architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas, are worth seeing in their own right, housing traditional Korean art (ceramics, paintings, Buddhist and metal craft) in M1 and Korean and international modern and contemporary art in M2. It's a great pick for travelers who want art and architecture together.
M1's iconic rotunda by Mario Botta, with a white spiral staircase and a skylight flooding the space with natural light
A standout permanent collection of Korean antique art, including National Treasure-class celadon, white porcelain, and buncheong ware
M2's modern and contemporary galleries (designed by Jean Nouvel) featuring international names such as Andy Warhol, Mark Rothko, and Damien Hirst
Three distinctly designed buildings by three renowned architects, plus outdoor sculpture and gardens
A location in stylish Hannam-dong near Itaewon, easy to pair with cafes and boutiques after your visit
Good to know
RulesVisits run on a reservation system. Bookings open 14 days before your visit date, with up to four people per reservation; on-site tickets for leftover slots exist, but online booking is strongly advised for weekends and popular special exhibitions (verify latest).
RulesThe permanent collection is free but still requires a reservation, while special/temporary exhibitions are paid (roughly KRW 12,000-20,000, varying by show). Prices and ticket combinations change per exhibition, so check the official website for the latest before you go.
RulesClosed on Mondays, and also on major holidays such as New Year's Day and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving). Hours are Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00 as a rule, but can change, so confirm the latest schedule.
MannersKeep quiet inside, don't touch the artworks, and follow the set viewing route. Photography rules can differ between permanent and special exhibitions, so watch for on-site signage and staff guidance.
SafetyThe Hannam-dong area has hills and slopes that can be tiring with young children (strollers are available to rent). It's about a 10-minute walk from the subway, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Practical info
Subway Line 6 to Hangangjin Station, Exit 1, then about a 10-minute walk (Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu). Open Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00, closed Mondays. Permanent collection free (reservation required); special exhibitions paid. Reservations open 14 days ahead, up to 4 people each. Confirm fees, hours, and rules on the official website before visiting.
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