Discover the Stories of Baekje at the Hanseong Baekje Museum

Are you a history enthusiast or someone fascinated by ancient civilizations? If so, the Hanseong Baekje Museum in Seoul has an exciting offering for you. This winter, the museum is hosting a special exhibition that brings the 1,500-year-old history of the Baekje Kingdom to life. With advanced research methods and rare artifacts, the exhibition unveils the stories of Baekje people like never before.

The special exhibition, titled “Baekje People: Tales of the Dead, Interpretations of the Living,” is the result of a collaborative effort between the Hanseong Baekje Museum and the National Buyeo Cultural Heritage Research Institute. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the past and explore the lives of Baekje individuals through their skeletal remains and archaeological findings. If you are looking for a snack stand around the museum, this snack guide would be helpful.

Step Back in Time: The Baekje Special Exhibition

Running from November 8, 2024, to February 2, 2025, this extraordinary exhibition takes visitors on a journey to uncover the secrets of the society. Using modern technologies like radiocarbon dating and forensic anthropology, researchers have decoded details of the lives, diets, health, and even family structures of the people.

The exhibition is divided into three main sections, each designed to provide a deeper understanding of the life:

1. Rediscovery of Human Remains
   This section highlights the groundbreaking research and findings from Baekje-era archaeological sites. Key exhibits include:
   • Skeletal remains from Ssangneung Tomb in Iksan, Jeollabuk-do.
   • Human remains unearthed in 2021 at the Eungpyeong-ri Tomb Cluster in Buyeo, Chungcheongnam-do.

   These rare artifacts provide a glimpse into the physical attributes and lifestyles of the people.

2. People of the time: Tales of the Dead, Interpretations of the Living
   This segment delves into the cultural and spiritual significance of the remains. Visitors learn about how the society commemorated the dead and what these practices reveal about their beliefs and traditions.
3. Database: Profiles of the People of the Era
   In this section, visitors can explore 3D models of 2,550 skeletal remains discovered at 25 Baekje archaeological sites. This digital innovation allows for a detailed examination of the physical and societal structure of the Baekje Kingdom.

What Bones Tell Us About the historic time

Human bones hold a wealth of information, acting as a living memory of an individual’s life. Through advanced analysis techniques, researchers have reconstructed various aspects of Baekje life, including:

• Physical Attributes: Average height, gender distribution, and age demographics.
• Dietary Habits: Insights into the food they consumed and their nutritional status.
• Health and Diseases: Evidence of illnesses, injuries, and medical practices.
• Family and Social Relationships: Clues about familial ties and social structures.

Why This Exhibition Matters

The “Baekje People” exhibition is not just about historical artifacts; it’s about understanding the essence of the society. While traditional exhibitions often focus on historical texts and monumental events, this one takes a more personal approach. By analyzing the skeletal remains, researchers have uncovered stories that bring Baekje people to life—showing us how they lived, what they ate, and even how they related to one another.

This groundbreaking exhibition allows visitors to step beyond the pages of history books and experience Baekje culture in a deeply personal way. It’s a chance to see history not as a distant past but as a vibrant narrative that connects us to our ancestors.

Key Highlights of the Baekje Exhibition

Some of the must-see features of this special exhibition include:

• Rare Artifacts: The wooden burial box from Ssangneung Tomb and skeletal remains from the Eungpyeong-ri Tomb Cluster are displayed for the first time to the public.
• Innovative Technology: The 3D models of skeletal remains provide an interactive way to explore Baekje society.
• Educational Insights: The exhibition offers detailed explanations of the methods used to analyze the remains, making it both informative and engaging.
• More information : Instagram @Seoulbaekjemuseum

Plan Your Visit to the Hanseong Baekje Museum

Located in the heart of Seoul, the Museum is easily accessible and provides a serene atmosphere for exploring Korea’s rich history.

• Location: 71, Wiryeseong-daero, Songpa-gu, Seoul (inside Olympic Park)
• Transportation:
  • Take Subway Line 9 to Hanseong Baekje Station and exit via Exit 2. The museum is a 5-6 minute walk away.
• Operating Hours:
  • Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • From November to February: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Closed: Mondays and January 1st
• Admission Fee: Free

Tips for Visitors

1. Arrive Early: Weekends can be busy, so arrive early to enjoy a quieter experience.
2. Combine Your Visit: Since the museum is located inside Olympic Park, you can explore the park’s beautiful landscapes before or after the exhibition.
3. Bring a Notebook: With so much to learn, jotting down interesting facts can make your visit even more memorable.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about ancient civilizations, this museum is a must-visit. It offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the people, blending science, history, and culture in a way that’s both educational and inspiring.

With free admission and an array of fascinating exhibits, there’s no reason not to visit. Make sure to catch this incredible exhibition before it ends on February 2, 2025!