National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)

Overview

The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) in Seoul is a premier cultural institution showcasing a wide range of modern and contemporary art from Korea and around the world. Housed in a striking architectural space, it offers a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

The MMCA is a leading institution in the promotion and preservation of modern and contemporary art in South Korea, providing a platform for both local and international artists.

Art Museum Cultural Institution

Location

Address

30 Samcheong-ro, Seoul, South Korea

Neighborhood: Samcheong-dong

Coordinates

37.577700, 126.975700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Closed (except national holidays)

tuesday 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM

sunday 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM

Admission

Adults

12,000 KRW

Children

6,000 KRW (ages 7-19)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild, pleasant

• cherry blossoms
• spring exhibitions

summer

hot, humid

• summer exhibitions
• extended hours

autumn

cool, pleasant

• fall colors
• autumn exhibitions

winter

cold, dry

• holiday lights
• winter exhibitions

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella hat

not allowed

large bags drones food and drinks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking and stairs

• bring water
• wear sunscreen

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards, mobile payment

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Typical Costs

entry 10,000 KRW

parking 3,500 KRW

food 8,000-15,000 KRW

souvenirs 10,000-50,000 KRW

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official MMCA website
• 48 hours in advance for refund
• available online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Information center

Auditorium

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

MMCA Seoul

Size: 45 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Exhibition areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Incheon International Airport

Distance: 55 km

Travel Time: 60-75 minutes

taxi

60,000-70,000 KRW 60-75 min

public_transport

10,000-15,000 KRW 90-120 min

From City Center

Distance: 2-3 km

metro

1,250 KRW 15 min

bus

1,200 KRW 20 min

taxi

5,000-8,000 KRW 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Showcases Korean and international contemporary art, cultural significance, and educational value

Historical Significance: Important institution for the promotion of modern and contemporary art in Korea

Insider Tips

Free entry early on weekdays
Best food and coffee at the on-site cafe
Local artists often gather in the outdoor areas

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village
• Try local street food outside the museum
• Ask for recommendations from local staff

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)

thank_you 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)

where_is 여기 어디예요? (Yeogi eodieyo?)

how_much 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)

beautiful 아름다워요 (Areumdawoyo)

ticket 티켓 (Tiket)

Guide Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for architectural shots

Result: Great shot with good lighting

#MMCA #ModernArt #SeoulArt

Outdoor sculpture garden

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Wide shots to capture the open space

Result: Beautiful contrast between art and nature

#SculptureGarden #OutdoorArt

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated indoor areas

prohibited areas special exhibitions, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed in most indoor areas

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted, require prior approval

selfie sticks allowed but use discretion

Nearby Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Historical Site

Bukchon Hanok Village

Distance: 500 m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Cultural Village

Insadong

Distance: 1 km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Cultural Street

Changdeokgung Palace

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min