Leeum is one of the finest art museums in Asia, established by the Samsung Culture in Seoul’s Hannam-dong neighbourhood in 2004. The museum occupies three buildings designed by three of the world’s most significant architects: Mario Botta (Museum 1, Korean traditional art), Jean Nouvel (Museum 2, modern and contemporary art), and Rem Koolhaas (Samsung Child Education and Culture Center). The collection spans 2,000 years of Korean art history alongside major international contemporary works.
Quick Answer: Leeum: World-class art museum in Hannam-dong, Seoul. Three buildings by Botta, Nouvel, and Koolhaas. Korean traditional art (celadon ceramics, Buddhist paintings, royal artefacts) in Museum 1; Korean and international modern and contemporary art in Museum 2. Admission: 20,000 won adults. Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm. Subway: Line 6 (brown) to Hangangjin Station (exit 1), then walk approximately 10 minutes.
Getting to Leeum
Subway Line 6 (brown) to Hangangjin Station (exit 1). Walk south uphill approximately 10 minutes, following signs for Leeum Samsung Museum of Art. The museum is in the upper Hannam-dong residential neighbourhood on a hillside. Alternatively, take a taxi from the Itaewon guide (5 minutes) or the Gangnam guide (10 minutes by taxi).
The Collection
Museum 1: Korean Traditional Art (Mario Botta Building)
The Botta building houses Leeum’s traditional Korean art collection across three underground floors. Highlights include:
- Goryeo celadon: One of the finest collections of Goryeo-era (918 to 1392 AD) celadon ceramics outside of the National Museum. The blue-green glaze and inlaid decorations are considered among the highest achievements of East Asian ceramics.
- Buddhist paintings and sculpture: Korean Buddhist art from the Three Kingdoms to the Joseon period, including gilt-bronze Buddha figures and religious paintings of exceptional quality.
- Royal Joseon court artifacts: Furniture, lacquerware, ritual bronzes, and painted screens from the Joseon royal court.
Museum 2: Modern and Contemporary Art (Jean Nouvel Building)
The Nouvel building is a dramatic dark steel structure housing works from the 20th century to the present. The collection includes major Korean modern artists (Kim Whanki, Park Seo-bo) alongside international works by Calder, Rothko, Hirst, and Koons. The ground floor includes a large-scale installation space frequently used for temporary exhibitions.
Outdoor Sculpture Garden
The Koolhaas-designed Child Education Center and the connecting outdoor areas have permanent sculpture installations, including works by Louise Bourgeois and Serra. The outdoor space between the buildings is free to enter and worth walking, even if not visiting the museum interior.
Temporary Exhibitions
Leeum hosts major temporary exhibitions throughout the year, which are often the primary reason to visit. Check the Leeum website (leeum.org) before visiting, as temporary exhibitions can significantly change the museum’s character. Some of Korea’s most significant contemporary art exhibitions have premiered at Leeum.
Admission and Hours
Admission: 20,000 won for adults. 10,000 won for youth (aged 7 to 18). Free for children under 7.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. Closed Monday.
Booking: Online bookings are available and recommended for weekends and during popular temporary exhibitions.
Hannam-dong Neighbourhood
Leeum sits in upper Hannam-dong, one of Seoul’s most upscale and design-conscious neighbourhoods. The streets between Leeum and Itaewon are lined with excellent galleries, concept stores, and restaurants. The combination of Leeum plus an afternoon walk through Hannam-dong and into Itaewon guide makes an excellent cultural half-day. The Hannam-dong area is also close to the Apgujeong Rodeo and Garosu-gil guides.
Nearby Guides
- Itaewon guide
- Apgujeong Rodeo guide
- Garosu-gil guide
- Gangnam guide
- Seoul day trips
- Things to do in Korea
- Seoul travel guide
- Seoul in 5 days
FAQ
Is Leeum worth visiting for non-art enthusiasts?
Yes. The Goryeo celadon collection is one of Korea’s finest and genuinely accessible regardless of art knowledge. The architecture of the three buildings alone is worth seeing. The Nouvel building is one of the most dramatic museum interiors in Asia. Budget 2 hours for a thorough visit.
How does Leeum compare to the National Museum of Korea?
The National Museum of Korea is larger and has a broader historical collection. Leeum has a more curated, higher-density presentation with exceptional individual pieces and significantly better contemporary art. Both are worth visiting. If limited to one, the National Museum offers the widest range; Leeum offers the finest pieces in a better-designed environment.
Is photography allowed at Leeum?
Photography policies vary by exhibition. The permanent collection generally allows photography without flash for personal use. Temporary exhibitions may restrict photography. Check at the museum entrance on the day of your visit.
