May, widely marked in South Korea as Family Month, is bringing a slate of programs at major museums nationwide, with hands-on activities, performances and education designed to make cultural heritage easier and more engaging for visitors.
The National Museum of Korea said Thursday it will host a family-focused event, “Gukjungbak Outing,” from May 2-5 across its outdoor plaza, Mirror Pond Square and the permanent exhibition halls.
Outdoor photo zones will feature character-themed installations tied to Kakao Friends, including “Bangara Chunsang” and a “white porcelain spring jar” display near the Mirror Pond. The large sculptures reimagine the famed pensive bodhisattva statue and a white porcelain moon jar as the characters Ryan and Chun-sik, respectively.
Performances are scheduled in the outdoor plaza, including a fusion Korean traditional music show by Akdan Gwangchil at 3 p.m. on May 2. On May 6, the museum plans balloon art and a bubble magic show by a stilt-walking clown, a Miracle Boyz ensemble performance, and a K-pop dance stage by YouTuber Sumail.
Visitors can also join participatory programs such as “My Own National Museum Treasure Exhibit” and “Make a National Museum Treasure Postcard.” In the permanent galleries, events include a “QR stamp tour” and a Children’s Day mission to find treasure stickers. Around the Mirror Pond, 13 independent bookstores will run children’s book sales booths, and Pulmuone Food & Culture will operate food trucks.
Regional national museums are also preparing family programs. The National Museum of Cheongju will offer a children’s musical, “The Sun and the Moon,” along with a magic and laser show, fusion Korean traditional music performances and a family sports day. The National Museum of Gongju will run a free children’s concert, “Kongkong Classic,” and a participatory play, “The Giant’s Desk.”
The National Museum of Buyeo will hold an interactive education program, “Today I’m an Oaksa,” and the 41st cultural heritage drawing contest. The National Museum of Iksan will stage participatory events around the Mireuksaji site, combining traditional folk games, craft activities, a treasure hunt, a magic show and photo zones.
Some museums will highlight local themes. The National Museum of Jeonju will host a children’s pottery festival, while the National Museum of Naju will offer mask-making. The National Museum of Gyeongju will stage a percussion performance near the bell pavilion of the Divine Bell of King Seongdeok, one of the museum’s signature cultural assets, allowing visitors to experience the heritage site alongside live music.
Each national museum operates its own website. A museum official said most Family Month events will be free, but some programs require advance reservations, and visitors should check each museum’s site for schedules and participation details.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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