Gongju National Museum
Chungcheongnam-do
Gongju National Museum, located in Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea, is a national museum dedicated to preserving and exhibiting artifacts primarily from the Baekje Kingdom era. The museum holds an extensive collection of more than 10,000 artifacts, including 19 national treasures and 3 treasures excavated from the Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do regions. Its most notable exhibits are items excavated from the Tomb of King Muryeong, such as royal foot and head rests, earrings, and the Geumje gwansik (golden crown ornament). Established initially as a preservation society in 1934, the museum evolved through various institutional changes before becoming the Gongju National Museum in 1975. The current modern building opened in 2004 in the Ungjin-dong area. The museum is free to enter, though visitors must obtain a free admission ticket at the entrance for orderly visitation. It plays a critical role in conserving Baekje culture and educating the public about this significant period in Korean history.
Plan your trip to Korea, South with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Gongju National Museum is during weekdays to avoid crowds. Admission is free, but visitors must obtain a free admission ticket at the entrance. Some special exhibitions might require a paid ticket, so checking the museum's official website ahead of time is recommended. The museum is accessible by public transport and offers informative displays in Korean with some English explanations.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds 19 national treasures and 3 treasures excavated from the Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do areas.
- •Artifacts from the Tomb of King Muryeong, including royal foot and head rests and earrings, are among the museum's prized exhibits.
- •The museum evolved from a preservation society established in 1934, making it one of the oldest institutions dedicated to Baekje culture preservation.
History
The Gongju National Museum originated from the Gongju Historical Preservation Society founded in 1934 to protect Baekje cultural heritage.
It opened as a branch of the Joseon Government-General Museum in 1940 and was reorganized as a branch of the National Museum in 1946 after liberation.
In 1975, it was elevated to the status of a national museum and relocated to a new building in Jung-dong, Gongju.
The current facility in Ungjin-dong was completed and opened in 2004, representing a modern space for preserving and exhibiting Baekje artifacts.
Place Guide
Artifacts from the Tomb of King Muryeong6th century
This exhibit features royal items excavated from the Tomb of King Muryeong, including gold ornaments, foot and head rests, and earrings, showcasing the craftsmanship and cultural wealth of the Baekje Kingdom.
Stone Buddha Statue and Stone Pagoda6th century
The museum displays significant stone Buddhist sculptures and pagodas excavated locally, representing Baekje's religious art and architectural styles.
Contact
Phone: 041-850-6300
