The striking new National Museum of Korea just opened in October 2005. The vast spaceship-like structure is built amongst various ponds, pagodas and garden areas. Namsan mountain and Seoul tower loom in the background and are framed like a work of art by an open foyer which joins the east and west wing of the museum. From the outside, the structure looks more like a satellite of Incheon airport rather than a museum. The majestic main building is constructed of marble, steel and glass. It’s ultra modern, yet somehow it looks like something out of a communist block country in the ‘60s.
The east wing, holds national treasures from the various dynasties. There's a bronze incense burner from the Baekje dynasty, paintings from the Chosun dynasty and tomb treasures from the Shilla dynasty. There is also a very interesting cartography section of the museum which has old maps from as far back as the 15th century. There’s a whole section on calligraphy and how chinese characters influenced the Korean language. The jewelry and accessories found inside some tombs in the Baekje dynasty could be a particular source of inspiration to jewelry designers. There are also Buddhist sculptures, private collections which were donated by individuals, and art from around Asia. For children, there are special exhibits as well. If you get tired, you can stop at one of the various coffee shops, or eat at one of the food courts. There are two museum shops which have nifty souvenirs. The west wing holds a theater and a library. Take a stroll around the grounds as well if you have time. It seems to be a very popular place for people to dress up in their hanboks and take photos. Surprisingly, you're allowed to take photos, but the use of flash is prohibited.
