Below is a Hyojagak. Have you ever wondered what it is? It protects a commemorative stone. The Hyojagak stands as a testament to Korean culture.
We find ourselves here near the National Folk Museum of Korea. This museum is within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung. The National Folk Museum of Korea is well known for its beautiful architecture.
Now let’s step back in time. The National Folk Museum of Korea has a rich history. Its predecessor was the Chōsen Folk Art Museum. It was founded in 1924 during Japan’s occupation of Korea. Asakawa brothers and Yanagi Sōdetsu were the three founders.
In 1945, the U.S. Government established a second museum. It carried the same name. This museum opened in 1946. It was located at the City Administration Memorial Hall. The museum merged with the National Museum of Korea. Its collection of 4,555 artifacts moved to the latter’s Namsan site.
The National Museum moved to Gyeongbokgung in 1975. It moved into the Modern Art Museum Building. In 1993, it opened at its present site. This was the former site of the National Museum of Korea. The building’s design reflects various historical buildings around South Korea.
The National Folk Museum of Korea boasts over 98,000 artifacts. There are three main exhibition halls. “History of Korean People” showcases everyday life. It spans from prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon period in 1910. “Korean Way of Life” illustrates Korean villagers in ancient times. “Life Cycle of the Koreans” depicts Confucianism’s deep roots. It shows how this ideology shaped Korean customs.
Open-air exhibits enhance the museum experience. Replicas of spirit posts stand here. Villagers once prayed at these posts. Stone piles for worship dot the landscape. Grinding mills and rice storage shelters provide context. Kimchi pots sit in pits, ready for winter.
In March 2021, an exhibition reopened. It showcased 20th-century items. These items came from the Joseon era. They also came from modern and contemporary Korea. These items are in Permanent Exhibition Hall 2. It reopened after renovation.
Operating hours vary. From March to October, it’s open 9 AM to 6 PM. From November to February, hours are 9 AM to 5 PM. Saturdays between March and October offer extended hours. The museum stays open until 8 PM. Every last Wednesday of the month is Culture Day.
Consider the Hyojagak as you explore the museum. The Hyojagak and its stone connect us to Korea’s past. They offer a glimpse into the values of the Joseon period. They highlight the importance of honoring ancestors.