National Museum of Korea

One of the largest museums in Asia, housing over 310,000 artifacts that span Korean history from the Paleolithic era to the modern age. The Yongsan building, opened in 2005, covers 295,551 square meters across three floors. The permanent collection (free to enter) includes the Gyeongcheonsa Ten-story Stone Pagoda (National Treasure No. 86) in the main hall and the Room of Quiet Contemplation, where two gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattvas from the 6th-7th century (National Treasures No. 78 and No. 83) are displayed without glass cases for 360-degree viewing. Outside, the Mirror Pond reflects the building facade, and the Pagoda Garden exhibits stone pagodas, lanterns, and bells in a landscaped setting. Free English guided tours run daily at 10:30 and 14:30.