National Maritime Museum

Experience and understand the significance of the ocean to our daily lives at the National Maritime Museum. This interactive cultural center is home to 14,000 artifacts that take visitors on a journey through the past, present and future of oceanic existence. Find eight themed exhibition galleries in addition to a children’s space and an aquarium at the National Maritime Museum.

The exhibits begin on the second floor of the museum’s modern building. See a replica of a wooden ship used during the Joseon Dynasty. Ships similar to this were used on diplomatic and political missions to Japan from the early 17thcentury until the early 19th century. On the same floor is the Children’s Museum, which has exhibits and activities designed specifically to educate children about the sea.

On the third floor you get the chance to understand how humankind and the ocean have come to coexist. Learn about ancient maritime communities, historic fishing techniques and the challenges faced by those that work with the sea. See a globe that depicts a navigational route taken by Captain James Cook and meet colorful fish species, reptiles and mammals as you walk through the wraparound tunnels of the aquarium.

The upper floor introduces the economic worth, productivity, sustainable expansion and future of the ocean. See an overview of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Browse examples of Korean-built ships and watch an ocean-themed 4-D movie complete with surround sound and vibrating seats.

Find more exhibits in the grounds outside the museum. Among these are replicas of anchors, buoys and Korean lighthouses. There’s also the yacht of Kang Dong-seok, who was the first South Korean to complete a solo trip across the Pacific Ocean by boat.

The museum is located on the eastern shoreline of Busan’s island district of Yeongdo-gu. Public buses travel regularly to the museum from the Nampo station, in the south of Jung District.

Busan’s National Maritime Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free. Fees are applicable for special exhibitions and the 4-D cinema. Audio guides are available for an additional charge.