Korea Furniture Museum

Hidden amidst the luxurious homes of Seoul’s Seongbuk-dong district sits the Korea Furniture Museum. It’s more than just a museum. It’s a time capsule. It’s a portal back to the Joseon Dynasty. The Korea Furniture Museum, founded in 1993 by Chyung Mi-sook, isn’t housed in a single, sterile building. Instead, it occupies ten traditional Korean houses, called hanoks. These hanoks are arranged like a small village. They offer a glimpse into the lives of the Korean aristocracy. Chyung Mi-sook began collecting these exquisite pieces in the 1960s. Her personal collection grew to around 2,500 pieces. She then decided to share this treasure trove with the world. Around 550 pieces are on display at any given time. The exhibits are regularly rotated. This gives visitors a chance to experience the breadth and depth of her collection. The Korea Furniture Museum highlights the unique characteristics of furniture from different regions of Korea. It also showcases the general principles of traditional Korean design. Notice the emphasis on the natural beauty of the wood. Artificial decorations are minimal. The designs are thoughtful and practical. They consider the natural expansion and contraction of the wood. They account for weight distribution and the human scale. The museum grounds also offer a unique experience called “chagyeong,” or “borrowed scenery.” The hanoks are designed to incorporate the surrounding landscape into the experience. Large windows frame views of the natural world, turning them into extensions of the house itself. This reflects a deep respect for nature and a macroscopic view of architecture. The Korea Furniture Museum has hosted numerous dignitaries and celebrities. These include South Korean presidents, spouses of G20 leaders, and even Victoria Beckham. In 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife dined at the museum. They reportedly enjoyed the doenjang jjigae, a traditional soybean paste soup. As you explore the Korea Furniture Museum, imagine yourself stepping back in time. Picture the Korean aristocracy moving through these rooms. Admire the craftsmanship and the harmony of design and nature. This museum is a testament to the enduring beauty and cultural significance of Korean furniture.