National Museum of Korea

If you’re planning a Seoul adventure that blends history, contemporary pop culture, and serious souvenir hunting, make sure the National Museum of Korea is on your radar. Already a must-visit for art and history lovers, it’s now seen a surge in visitors thanks to the Netflix phenom K‑Pop Demon Hunters.

How K-Pop Demon Hunters Sparked a Visitor Boom

The animated musical film K‑Pop Demon Hunters, which follows the supernatural adventures of girl group Huntr/x, has broken records across streaming platforms. Released on June 20, 2025, it quickly became Netflix’s most-watched animated original and one of its most popular titles overall.

In South Korea, fans call it “Keh‑deh‑hun”—a name shorthand that illustrates just how obsessively it’s been embraced Los Angeles Times. Its soundtrack, particularly the hit single “Golden” by Huntr/x, topped the Billboard Hot 100, marking the first time a K‑pop girl group—fictional or real—has achieved that feat .

Beyond screens, the film’s influence is real and tangible. The National Museum of Korea has become a key location in fan itineraries, with its tiger-and-magpie pin inspired by the film’s folklore imagery becoming a cult favorite .

Experience Folk Art & K-Pop Collide

One of the film’s most memorable elements is its creative homage to traditional Korean art and folklore:

The playful tiger “Derpy” and magpie “Sussy” are rooted in Jakhodo, a traditional folk-art style pairing tigers and magpies .
The antagonist boy band Saja Boys don black hanbok and wide-brimmed hats echoing the jeoseung saja (grim reaper figures) from Korean folklore i.

These artistic nods to culture have fans not only flocking to the museum but also gravitating toward its gift shop, where folklore-inspired merch now flies off the shelves.

What to Do at the National Museum of Korea Now

Explore the Exhibitions
Discover centuries of Korean history across galleries like Prehistoric Artifacts, Buddhist Sculpture, and Southeast Asian Art. Don’t miss the Calligraphy and Painting Hall or the serene outdoor garden.

Shop the MU:DS Store
MU:DS (Museum + Goods) offers beautifully designed items. The tiger & magpie badge, echoing K‑Pop Demon Hunters, is now a must-buy memento.

Join the Crowd—but Plan Smart
With record visitor numbers, aim for weekdays or take advantage of evening hours if offered. Public transport (subway to Ichon Station) is your friend—parking is tight.

Why This Museum Visit Just Got Epic

Cultural Alchemy: The museum blends timeless heritage with contemporary pop—your trip is both educational and culturally in sync.
Pop-Cultural Relevance: Walking the same halls fans and K-Pop idols visit creates an instant connection.
Unique Souvenirs: The folklore-inspired merch is both meaningful and trend-savvy.

Highlights Inside the National Museum of Korea

While the pop culture buzz is exciting, the museum’s core appeal remains its world-class collection of Korean artifacts.

Prehistoric & Ancient History Gallery: See the origins of Korean civilization through pottery, tools, and early art.
Buddhist Art Hall: Peaceful sculptures, paintings, and relics that reflect centuries of spiritual tradition.
Calligraphy & Painting Hall: Masterpieces that reveal Korea’s deep artistic heritage.
Outdoor Garden: Beautiful stone pagodas and lanterns, perfect for photos.

Visitor Information and Travel Tips

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on certain holidays)
Admission: Free for permanent exhibitions; fees apply for some special shows
Getting There: Subway to Ichon Station (Line 4 or Gyeongui–Jungang Line), Exit 2, 5-minute walk
Nearby Attractions: Yongsan Family Park, Itaewon dining & shopping, War Memorial of Korea

Tip for K-Pop fans: Plan your visit early in the day to avoid long lines at the gift shop, especially if limited-edition goods are available.

Final Thoughts

Seoul has always had incredible historical destinations, but now the National Museum of Korea stands at the intersection of H-history and K-pop fandom. It’s where animated fantasy meets folkloric reality—and where visitor numbers and memorable experiences grow together.

Whether you’re drawn by national treasures or by the magic of K-Pop Demon Hunters, this museum experience delivers something unforgettable. Ready to plan your visit, or need help crafting the perfect itinerary? I’ve got you covered!