Did you know that a great place exists where you can travel back in time and learn about the inventor of the Korean script, 한글(Hangeul), and the history of 한글 for over 500 years?

Last week I explored 국립한글박물관 (The National Hangeul Museum), which was opened on October 9, 2014. The Korean script, 한글  was invented by King Sejong in 1443, and the creation of 한글  has played a key role in enriching Korean culture. If you are interested in learning about the creator, history, and characteristics of  한글, 국립한글박물관  is an excellent place to visit. This place will definitely help you to learn in depth information about 한글.

Although this museum has a very modern and interesting appearance on the outside, as soon as you enter each exhibition halls, you will be suddenly immersed into the rich history of  한글 . The 2^nd floor has permanent displays which relate to the creation, development, and globalization of 한글  and 문학  (literature). The 3^rd floor has a special exhibition, 한글  learning center, and the children’s Museum: visitors can have an opportunity to become familiar with the Korean alphabet system and culture. The 1^st floor has a library that provides access to educational resources and materials regarding  한글, 문학 , and 예술 (the arts).

This place offers a variety of educational programs, hands-on experiences, and detailed explanations about 한글. My favorite part of the exhibitions was information that 한글’s basic consonants were created based on the shape of the vocal organs, and the basic vowels created based on the shapes of heaven, man, and earth. Arrays of 1^st grade Korean books that were on display also brought back many childhood memories.

This place is located at:

서울시 용산구 서빙고로  139

(139 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul)

Admission is free, and its hours of operations are:

• Monday – Friday, Sunday, and national holidays 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Last Wednesdays of every month 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

* It is closed on January 1^st, Seolnal (Lunar New Year’s day), and    Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day)

국립한글박물관  provides guided tours in English, Chinese, and Japanese. If you are interested in finding out more information about this place, please click the following link to verify the times for guided tours, special programs, and exhibitions throughout the year.

www.hangeul.go.kr

감사합니다! (Thank you!)