Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
Build a trip to Seoul
About
Leeum is a premier private museum that showcases a world-class collection of both traditional Korean art and international contemporary works. The museum's architecture is a masterpiece itself, featuring three distinct buildings designed by world-renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas. The sensory experience is one of refined luxury and quiet contemplation, with the 'Museum 1' rotunda providing a stunning white-spiral staircase for photography. Experts recommend the permanent collection of Korean national treasures, including Goryeo celadon and Joseon white porcelain. Pro tip: You must book tickets online in advance through their official website; the digital guide (provided via smartphone) is highly interactive and provides a deep dive into the artists' intentions.
Highlights
- Contemporary and traditional art
- World-class museum architecture
- Iconic Mario Botta building
- Samsung collection treasures
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
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Maple Tree House (Itaewon)
Maple Tree House offers a sophisticated and modern twist on the traditional Korean BBQ experience, set in a stylish interior featuring walls lined with thousands of empty green soju bottles. It is particularly famous for its high-quality 'Hanwoo' (premium Korean beef) and its thick-cut Jeju black pork belly. The atmosphere is trendy and foreigner-friendly, with staff providing professional grilling services so your meat is cooked to perfection. Experts recommend the 'Aged Chuck Flap Tail' for its incredible marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Practical pro tip: The Itaewon branch is very popular for dinner; it’s wise to make a reservation through their website or walk in before 6:30 PM to avoid a long wait.
Itaewon World Food Street
Itaewon is Seoul’s most multicultural district, a vibrant melting pot where cuisines from every corner of the globe line the streets behind the Hamilton Hotel. Originally developed due to its proximity to a US military base, it has transformed into a trendy hub for nightlife, brunch, and international fashion. The sensory experience is a global tour—Turkish kebabs, authentic American BBQ, and Greek souvlaki aromas mingle with the sounds of various languages. Experts suggest exploring 'Antique Furniture Street' nearby for unique vintage finds. Pro tip: Itaewon is most alive on Friday and Saturday nights; however, visit on a Sunday afternoon for a more relaxed 'Global Brunch' vibe.
Namsan Park
Namsan Park is the largest park in Seoul, offering a lush green escape right in the center of the city. It encompasses Namsan Mountain and is crisscrossed by numerous walking trails, including the historic Seoul City Wall path. The ascent provides various observation points that offer different perspectives of the city's skyline. The sensory experience is peaceful, with birdsong and the rustle of maple trees. It is a historical site featuring the Namsan Beacon Mounds (Bongsudae) which were used for communication during the Joseon Dynasty. Experts recommend walking the 'Sowol-ro' path during autumn for the best fall colors. Pro tip: While the cable car is popular, walking up the well-maintained stairs takes about 30-40 minutes and is a great way to experience the park's natural beauty up close.
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N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
Perched atop Namsan Mountain at 479 meters above sea level, N Seoul Tower has been Seoul's most recognizable landmark since 1980, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city from its observation deck that reveals the Han River, surrounding mountains, and the endless urban sprawl in all directions. The tower's lighting changes color based on air quality—a blue light on clear days celebrates good visibility while its presence defines the Seoul skyline. The famous love lock fence surrounding the base is festooned with thousands of padlocks left by couples declaring their eternal affection, and the cable car ride from Myeongdong adds to the romance of the ascent.
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