Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul Museum of History

A Time Trip Through Myeongdong, Seoul with Your Child: Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul History Museum

The Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul History Museum is a special place right next to Myeongdong Cathedral, where you can easily and warmly explore more than 130 years of history, culture, and the meaning of faith in the heart of the city. It is a wonderful family outing spot where you and your kids can learn about the changes in Seoul and experience old architecture and the history of Korean Catholicism with all your senses.

What kind of place is the Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul History Museum?

• The museum is housed in a red brick Western-style building built in 1890, formerly known as the Apostolic Hall.
• It was first used as offices and living quarters for bishops, then later served as a university, publishing house, and administrative office before opening as a history museum in June 2018.
• The building itself is one of Korea's early Western-style buildings, so you can see the architectural style of that era with your own eyes.

Exhibitions and Highlights

1. The History of the Space

   • On the first floor, you will find displays introducing the building's former appearance and the changes in modern Seoul built around it.
   • There are many stories on display that children may find especially interesting, including the origins of the site and the building's transformation over time.

2. History Through Time

   • You can see the major events and historical atmosphere of the Archdiocese of Seoul across more than 230 years at a glance.
   • The exhibitions explain in an easy way how faith was preserved through change and how the Church has been part of society.

3. The History of People

   • From the first bishop, Bruguiere, to the twelfth, Cardinal Cheong Jin-seok, the paths and achievements of past bishops are clearly presented.
   • You can also see a variety of artifacts and materials used at the time, making this a vivid educational experience in history.

Why it is great to visit with kids

• Learning plus experience: Friendly volunteer guides are available, so your child can ask questions and learn on the spot.
• The interior is divided between the first and second floors, with thoughtfully arranged themed exhibitions that make it easy to explore at a calm pace.
• The unique architecture where modern and contemporary styles coexist, along with the real traces of past Church leaders, sparks curiosity.

Visitor Information

• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM closed on Mondays
• How to visit: Free viewing is available, and docent tours can also be reserved according to the schedule. If you would like to use the docent service, you can make a reservation on Naver.
• Photography is allowed only in some areas, and close-up photography of exhibits may be restricted.
• Parking: You can use the paid parking lot at Myeongdong Cathedral, and the museum is within walking distance from Myeongdong Station on Line 4.
• Since it is adjacent to Myeongdong Cathedral, it pairs very well with a visit to the cathedral.

Recommended for families like these

• Families who want to fully experience history and culture in central Seoul
• Parents who want to give their children a new experience in a special place where past and present coexist
• Visitors who want to explore faith, architecture, and the changes in Korea during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in an easy and engaging way

"The Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul History Museum is a meaningful place where you can share rich stories that connect time and space with your child, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Myeongdong Cathedral. We hope you will enjoy walking through this old building together and discovering the hidden stories inside."