PHOTOS: 'A Room of Quiet Contemplation' at National Museum of Korea

SEOUL, February 18 (AJP) - The Room of Quiet Contemplation on the second floor of the National Museum of Korea is always filled with visitors. This space houses two Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva statues, designated as National Treasures, from the late 6th to early 7th century, displayed side by side. As you walk through the dimly lit and silent corridor, you come face to face with the serene figure of a Pensive Bodhisattva, seated with one leg crossed over the other, gently resting one hand on its cheek, immersed in deep thought.

사유의 방 — "A Room of Quiet Contemplation" at National Museum of Korea, AJP Cho Bo-hee

These statues, masterpieces of metal casting, combine simplicity with a sense of liveliness, and grandeur with restraint. Their dignified presence draws even the busiest modern visitor into a quiet moment of reflection.　　

사유의 방에 전시된 국보 금동미륵보살반가사유상 두 점 — Two Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva statues are displayed at "A Room of Quiet Contemplation" at National Museum of Korea, AJP Cho Bo-hee AJP Cho bo-hee

　　　　　　
Since relocating to Yongsan in 2005, the National Museum of Korea has become the country’s largest and most prominent museum, welcoming over four million visitors annually. Its permanent exhibition halls house a vast collection of Korean antiquities and artifacts, featuring approximately 10,000 items. The museum’s exhibits are regularly rotated to ensure preservation and accommodate external exhibitions. Admission to the permanent exhibition is free.

국보인　경천사 10층석탑 — This image shows The 10-story stone pagoda of Gyeongcheonsa, a National Treasure, displayed at the National Museum of Korea. AJP Cho bo-hee

The museum spans three floors, each dedicated to different themes. The first floor showcases the Prehistoric & Ancient History Hall and the Medieval & Early Modern History Hall. The second floor is home to the Calligraphy & Painting Hall, the Donated Works Hall, and the Room of Quiet Contemplation, while the third floor features the Sculpture & Craft Hall and the World Art Hall. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the 10-story stone pagoda of Gyeongcheonsa, a National Treasure, standing tall in the first-floor lobby.

야외 전시장 — The Pagoda of Buddhist Monk Yeomgeo, a National Treasure, is displayed in the outdoor exhibition area of the National Museum of Korea. AJP Cho bo-hee

Exploring the entire museum thoroughly requires at least half a day, but for those with limited time, it is recommended to start from the third floor and work your way down.

국립중앙발물관 전경 — A panoramic view of the National Museum of Korea. AJP Cho bo-hee

3층 불상 전시관 — The Buddha Statue Exhibition Hall on the third floor. AJP Cho bo-hee

Beyond the museum building, the Outdoor Exhibition Area houses some of Korea’s most treasured historical artifacts. The Pagoda of Buddhist Monk Yeomgeo, designated as a National Treasure, stands among them, alongside the Stupa of Jingong from Heungbeopsa Temple, a relic commissioned by Goryeo’s founding king, Wang Geon. Another remarkable piece is the Seven-story Stone Pagoda from Namgyewonji, a prime example of Goryeo-era stone pagodas, originally located in Kaesong. Also on display is the Bosingak Bell, one of the most famous bells from the Joseon Dynasty, known for its deep and resonant chime.