Leeum Museum of Art is one of the most well-known art museums in Seoul, and it’s located in Hannam-dong. I ended up visiting while exploring the area, since several interesting spots are within walking distance. The museum is run by the Samsung Foundation and is known for housing both traditional Korean art and contemporary works.

Leeum Museum of Art
the famous staircase at Leeum Museum of Art

Even if you’re not someone who usually goes out of your way to visit museums, Leeum is still worth a stop. The architecture alone makes it interesting, with each building designed by a different architect. It feels modern and thoughtfully planned without being overwhelming.


How to Get to Leeum Museum of Art

Leeum Museum of Art is located in Hannam-dong, one of the more upscale neighborhoods in Seoul. The easiest way to reach it is by subway. You can take Line 6 and get off at Hangangjin Station, then walk about five minutes to the museum entrance.

Leeum Museum of Art
one of the traditional galleries

The walk itself is pretty straightforward, and the area is easy to navigate. Hannam-dong is also a nice neighborhood to explore before or after your visit, with plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby.

What to Expect at Leeum Museum of Art

Leeum Museum of Art has several areas to explore, from the permanent galleries to the museum’s architecture and special exhibitions. Here's what you can expect to see during your visit.

Permanent Collection

The permanent collection at Leeum is free to visit and spans five stories. You start at the top floor and slowly make your way down, following the museum’s famous circular staircase as you move through the galleries. The layout makes the visit feel very structured, guiding you naturally from one level to the next.

Leeum Museum of Art
a stunning display of ceramics

The collection features a mix of traditional Korean art along with some modern works. You’ll see ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and decorative objects that reflect different periods of Korean history. Many of the pieces are beautifully preserved and displayed in very minimal spaces, which allows the details of the artwork to stand out without distraction.

The Architecture

One of the most memorable parts of Leeum Museum of Art is the architecture itself. The complex was designed by internationally known architects, and each building has its own distinct style. Moving between the buildings almost feels like transitioning between different worlds.

Leeum Museum of Art
skylight above the staircase

One of the most photographed spots in the museum is the circular spiral staircase that looks down through multiple levels. From above, the repeating rectangular openings create a striking geometric pattern that draws your eye toward the center. It’s one of those architectural details that makes people stop and take photos before continuing through the galleries.

Special Exhibitions

In addition to the permanent collections, Leeum also hosts special exhibitions that change throughout the year. These usually feature contemporary artists or themed exhibitions and require a separate paid ticket. If there’s a particular exhibition you’re interested in, it’s best to check the museum’s website in advance. These exhibitions are often one of the main reasons people revisit the museum.

Café and Rest Area

There’s also a café and a few rest areas where you can sit down for a bit after walking through the galleries. Museums can get a bit overwhelming after a while, so having a place to pause is always nice. The spaces are simple and quiet, which fits the overall atmosphere of the museum. It’s a good spot to recharge before continuing your day in Hannam-dong.

Where to Get Tickets for Leeum Museum of Art

You can get tickets when you arrive at the museum. Entry to the permanent exhibitions is free, and when I visited, I was able to walk in and get a ticket at the counter. There was also no assigned time slot for the visit.

Leeum Museum of Art
old scupltures

Special exhibitions usually require a paid ticket, and prices range from roughly KRW10,000 to 18,000, depending on the exhibition. It’s best to check the museum’s website in advance for details on tickets and reservations.


Visiting Leeum Museum of Art ended up being a really nice way to spend a few hours in Hannam-dong. The combination of traditional pieces, contemporary works, and thoughtful architecture makes it an interesting place to explore.

Even if you’re just casually interested in art, it’s an easy stop to add to your itinerary. It’s also a good way to balance out a day of cafe hopping or shopping in the area.