December In Seoul: Must-See Cultural Events & Museum Exhibitions

Curious about the special exhibitions and must-visit events in Seoul this December? You’re in luck! We’re here to help you discover all the exciting happenings in the capital city that you can have right at your fingertips!

Seoul has numerous museums and galleries that offer a wide range of exhibitions from permanent to temporary that are only around for a limited time. So seize the opportunity now while they’re still here, or else you might never get the chance again. Whether you’re an avid art lover, a curious soul, or simply searching for free indoor activities, look no further.

Here are the events we suggest checking out during December. With city streets covered in snow and the cold weather settling in, it’s the perfect time to visit museums and enjoy a peaceful, reflective experience.

 

1. Bojagi, Embracing Daily Life

Duration of the exhibition: July 16th, 2021 ~ December 31th, 2025
Location: Seoul Museum of Craft Art
Location tip: Located in Insadong
Price: Free
Learn more here

The “Bojagi, Embracing Daily Life“ exhibition at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art (SeMoCA) explores the traditional Korean art of bojagi, or wrapping cloths, used in various aspects of Korean life. This exhibit presents bojagi not only as utilitarian items but also as intricate works of art, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of Korean textile arts. Traditional bojagi are typically made from fabrics such as silk or cotton, often hand-dyed and embroidered, symbolizing values like care and respect in everyday exchanges. The exhibit illustrates how these cloths served multifunctional purposes, such as gift-wrapping, carrying items, and even decorating living spaces.

 

2. Project Hashtag 2024

Duration of the exhibition: November 15th, 2024 ~ April 6th, 2025
Location: National Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art
Location tip: Located close to Gyeonbokgung palace
Price: 5,000
Learn more here

This exhibition showcases a diverse range of contemporary art that delves into modern social, cultural, and environmental issues. It highlights works by Korean and international artists, offering perspectives on topics such as identity, technology, nature, and urbanization. The exhibit includes a variety of media—paintings, sculptures, installations, digital art, and interactive pieces—encouraging a multi-sensory experience. Through innovative and thought-provoking works, the exhibition aims to foster dialogue on global and local concerns, reflecting the evolving landscape of contemporary art.

 

3. Let’s Play!

Duration of the exhibition: November 1st, 2024 ~ January 31st, 2025
Location: Donuimun Museum Village
Location tip: Located close to Gyeonghuigung Palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

The solo exhibition “Let’s Play!” by artist Hyun JiWon (Z1) at Seoul’s Donuimun Museum Village aims to present the historical evolution, lifestyle, and culture of Donuimun in a friendly, engaging way. Targeting families, couples, and friends who frequently visit the museum, the exhibition is designed to make Donuimun’s history accessible and enjoyable, encouraging active participation. Through a series of short videos lasting between 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 5 minutes, the exhibition highlights Donuimun’s historical flow in the initial scenes and then showcases key moments in a leisurely style.

 

4. Shi-hwa Il-ryul

Duration of the exhibition: June 16th, 2024 ~ December 31st, 2025
Location: Donuimun Museum Village
Location tip: Located close to Gyeonghuigung Palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

This immersive display uses LED media façades to narrate a century of Seoul’s evolution, blending traditional Korean landscapes with modern art and dynamic soundscapes. The village showcases Seoul’s history through cultural events, exhibitions, and preserved architecture, offering insights into urban heritage. Visitor information, event details, and artist profiles are also provided.

 

5. Memory Pawnshop: Your And My Fan Heart

Duration of the exhibition: May 31st, 2024 ~ December 31st, 2024
Location: Donuimun Museum Village
Location tip: Located close to Gyeonghuigung Palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

“Memory Pawnshop: Your And My Fan Heart” is a participatory exhibition running until December 31, 2024. It invites visitors to share and display personal mementos linked to cherished memories. Featuring six collectors and on-site contributions, the show celebrates storytelling, connection, and shared nostalgia. Guided by “Maru,” the exhibit’s mascot, it emphasizes the value of preserving memories, sharing joy, and cherishing the present.

 

6. Rhythm: Being Two In Nature

Duration of the exhibition: April 30th, 2024 ~ March 9th, 2025
Location: Donuimun Museum Village
Location tip: Located near Mogaknaru Station
Price: Free
Learn more here

The Seoul Botanic Park’s featured exhibition introduces the diverse roles and benefits of plants in urban life. Through interactive displays and innovative exhibits, it explores topics such as sustainable ecosystems, the importance of biodiversity, and the relationship between humans and plants. The exhibition is designed to educate visitors on environmental conservation and inspire a deeper appreciation for nature.

 

7. Writings Of Ahn JungGeun

Duration of the exhibition: October 24th, 2024 ~ October 27th, 2024
Location: National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Location tip: it is located in Gwanghwamun and in front of Gyeongbokgung palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

Writings Of Ahn JungGeun at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History explore Ahn’s historic resistance against imperialism. It showcases his writings, personal items, and related artifacts, emphasizing his vision for peace and unity in East Asia. Visitors gain insight into his values, actions, and legacy as a symbol of Korea’s independence movement.

 

8. My Story, Our History

Duration of the exhibition: December 6th, 2024 ~ February 15th, 2025
Location: National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Location tip: it is located in Gwanghwamun and in front of Gyeongbokgung palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

This exhibition invites participants to reflect on personal experiences within the broader context of Korean history. It explores themes of identity, memory, and shared cultural narratives, using interactive elements and personal stories to create a collective understanding of historical events. This participatory approach fosters connections between individual and national histories.

 

9. Parade

Duration of the exhibition: October 23rd, 2024 ~ March 3rd, 2025
Location: National Folk Museum of Korea
Location tip: It is located by Gyeongbokgung palace
Price: Free
Learn more here

The Parade exhibition at the National Folk Museum of Korea delves into the Korean view of life and death through the lens of Kokdu, vibrantly painted wooden figures guiding souls to the afterlife. It reflects on the cyclical journey of life, death, and spiritual return, inviting visitors to explore cultural rituals, symbolism, and the transition to the next world. The exhibit encourages reflection on mortality and heritage, emphasizing Kokdu’s role in making the journey peaceful.

 

10. Balance

Duration of the exhibition: November 7th, 2024 ~ January 5th, 2025
Location: Hanji House
Location tip: Located near Anguk station
Price: Free
Learn more here

Artist Park SunKi’s exhibition “Balance” at Hanji House explores natural balance through hanji (Korean paper) and mobile sculptures. Known for examining materials and gravity, Park SunKi uses hanji’s transparency and strength to capture shifting shadows and light, creating an evolving, interactive space. The exhibition invites viewers to experience Korean aesthetics as hanji reflects Korea’s seasons and traditional natural views, blending tradition with contemporary form. It offers a sensory journey that redefines sculpture, encouraging viewers to feel harmony in nature and space.