[ Korea travel ] the Seoul Museum of Urban Life and History, Historical Travel Recommendations

 

A Seoul-Based Designer’s Travel Pick — A Must-Visit Museum!

It’s been a while since I shared something, but today I want to recommend a special spot in Seoul:
The Seoul Museum of Urban Life and History.

Whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit local history museums — they help me understand how a city became what it is today. That’s why I always try to stop by at least one during my trips.

And guess what? Seoul has a museum just like that!
It’s definitely one of the places I’d especially recommend to foreign visitors.
So I thought I’d write a little about it today.

Discover how everyday life in Seoul has changed through the decades

If you're curious about how people in Seoul lived in the past — what their homes looked like, how they worked, and what they wore — the Seoul Museum of Living History is a must-visit. This charming museum offers an engaging look into daily life in Seoul from the early 20th century to the present.

🆓 Free Admission
That’s right — there’s no entry fee, so it’s an excellent cultural stop for travelers on any budget.

📍 What to See
The museum spans three floors, each offering a different experience:

• 1st Floor: Introduction to Seoul’s neighborhoods and the city’s rapid modernization

• 2nd Floor: Reconstructed homes, classrooms, and markets from the 1960s to 1980s

• 3rd Floor: Interactive exhibits where you can experience retro Seoul firsthand

You'll see authentic items from the past — radios, furniture, household tools, school uniforms, and more — and learn about how the city's people adapted to social and economic changes over the decades.

You can witness how Seoul has transformed—from the aftermath of the Korean War to the modern day.
The museum is filled with fascinating exhibits, all based on donated items, making it rich in content.
The explanations are also well-organized and easy to follow.

🕰️ Why Visit?
Whether you’re a history lover or simply want to understand Seoul beyond its skyscrapers, this museum gives you a heartfelt glimpse into the everyday lives of Seoulites through the years. It’s a relaxing and enriching way to spend an afternoon.

💬 Good for all ages and easily accessible by public transportation. Most signs include English explanations, and the atmosphere is welcoming and easy to enjoy without needing a guide.

You can explore from the 1st to the 3rd floor. 

You’ll get to see how Seoul has transformed over time, how its people lived, and the kinds of places they called home.