The grand, marble-lined, modernist building cleverly channels plenty of natural light to show off Korea’s ancient treasures. Among the must-see exhibits in the ground-floor galleries are the Baekje Incense Burner , an extraordinary example of the artistry of the 6th- to 7th-century Baekje Kingdom; and the Golden Treasures for the Great Tomb of Hwangham . In the 3rd-floor sculpture and craft galleries, search out the Pensive Bodhisattva from the 7th century. Also look down on the top of the Goryeo-dynasty Ten Story Pagoda carved from marble.
Hour-long, English-language tours leave from the Great Hall lobby at 10am, 11am and 2pm Tuesday to Friday, and 11am and 2pm weekends; alternatively you can rent an audioguide (₩1000).
The surrounding park is best appreciated in good weather, when the Great Hall is perfectly reflected in the large Reflecting Pond . The original Bosingak Bell is in the grounds near the picturesque Dragon Falls .
Outside is the Special Exhibition Hall which hosts blockbuster shows on anything from Pompeii to the Silk Road, with tickets costing around ₩10,000. Those interested in Korean language can visit the National Hanguel Museum , which provides an overview of its relatively recent history.
Kids don't miss out either with the Children's Museum offering a snapshot of Korean culture with plenty of hands-on features and play spaces.
For picnic snacks in the park, there’s a convenience store near the main entrance, as well as several cafes and restaurants in the complex.
