Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, perfectly blends tradition and innovation with a vibrant cultural heritage and modern atmosphere. The city boasts a mix of historic landmarks, modern architecture, and an exciting culinary scene. The Donuimun Museum Village is located in the heart of the city, and it takes visitors on a nostalgic journey back to Seoul in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.
Explore all you need to know about this nostalgic site of Donumium Museum Village.
The Donuimun Museum Village was once known as Saemunan Village, the first neighbourhood located by the western gate of the Seoul City Wall. Initially, it was a bustling spot for nearby office workers, but it was later converted into a museum village to preserve its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the traditional Hanoks and contemporary structures located in the village. Sadly, the main gate, Donuimun, built in 1396, was demolished during the Japanese occupation. However, the village has been transformed into a living testament to its vibrant past, from a residential area to a thriving cultural centre.
Donuimun Museum Village epitomises "100 years of Seoul, a time travel playground in the city," evoking nostalgia as you wander through its alleys. Maps are plentiful for navigation, and all buildings are open to exploration, encouraging visitors to delve freely into the village's history.
You'll find the Information Center waiting for you as you arrive at this location. It offers a comfortable setting with tables and chairs to relax and enjoy the spectacle. You'll be delighted by the captivating light show that illuminates the building, adding a touch of excitement to your visit. Additionally, seasonal installations for festive occasions and engaging performances add charm to this vibrant hub.
Explore the rich history of the neighbourhood that was formed by merging old restaurants. Learn about this cultural enclave's roads, architecture, and former residents. Discover captivating dioramas that showcase the neighbourhood's evolution over time. You can also find remnants of the Gyeonghuigung Palace Wall, which has been excavated and conserved with great care, providing intriguing glimpses of the past. To get a great start to your journey, visit the Village Yard and Information Center, which sets the stage for your exploration and provides valuable insights into the neighbourhood.
This exhibition hall is dedicated to Bang Jeong-hwan, who was a visionary behind the inception of 'Children's Day' and a prominent figure in the children's rights movement. His legacy had a significant impact, and this hall commemorates his contributions. During Japanese colonisation, children were often considered mere assets for labour. However, Bang advocated for their protection, recognising them as cherished family members characterised by their innocence and vulnerability.
A vibrant hub in the city, this bustling arcade attracts several families. Parents can be seen guiding their children through the world of vintage gaming. You can dive into the realm of classic games available here, all for free, making it an irresistible destination for everyone. Even if you don't have youngsters in tow, you'll be tempted to indulge in some gaming nostalgia. It promises to be a delightful experience for all visitors.
Experience the vintage charm of a 1960s and 1970s-themed barber shop. You can enjoy an authentic haircut experience if you time your visit well. Whether you need a trim or not, stepping inside the shop allows you to admire the original wall decor that adds a touch of nostalgia to the ambience.
In the village, a fascinating museum is dedicated to Frank W. Schofield, a foreigner who played a significant role in the Korean Independence March 1st Movement. He arrived in Korea in 1916 as a professor at Severance Medical School and helped spread information about the anti-Japanese resistance to the world. Through his photography and reports, he documented the Suchon-ri and Jean-ri massacres and exposed Japan's brutal actions in Korea. However, he was forcibly repatriated to Canada in 1920 due to his activism. Despite this, he was honoured posthumously with the Republic of Korea Medal of the National Foundation and buried in Korea's National Cemetery, as he wished.
Among other notable places not to miss are Saemunan Theater which is a brilliant portrayal of movie theatre in the 1960s, the Saemunan Comic Book Store where you'll find some amazing old gems, and Seoul Center for Architecture and Urbanism.
If you are looking for something light like a coffee, cookie, and snacks, the nearby Seogung Gallery and Cafe is the place to check out. You can also check out the Snack Bar for School, which has some delectable dishes usually eaten as an after-school meal, such as tteokbokki, kimbab, and dumplings. The place has a retro theme.
Directions: To get to the village, you can either head to Seodaemun Subway Station and take exit 4. From there, it's just a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, you can go to Gwanghwamun Subway Station and take exit 7. It'll take you about 10 minutes to reach the village from there.
Address: 14-3 Songwol-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Tickets: Admission to Donuimun Museum Village is free. It is closed on Mondays and the day of New Year.
Timings: 10 am to 7 pm.
