This tour introduces you to gugak, Korean traditional music, in depth at the National Gugak Center in Seocho-gu, Seoul. First, a short class covers the cultural ideas and historical background of gugak, and then you explore the Gugak Museum with a local guide to learn about traditional instruments and the history of the music. Finally, you enjoy a live gugak concert featuring a variety of instruments and musical styles. Rather than simply watching a show, you experience gugak with an understanding of the background behind the music you hear.

Start with a short class on
the ideas and history of gugak

The experience begins with a short introductory class of about 30 minutes at Umyeondang Hall of the National Gugak Center. Before listening to the music, learn the key concepts and historical background that shaped Korean traditional music, and discover how gugak differs in sound, rhythm and expression.

See traditional instruments up close at the Gugak Museum

Next, visit the Gugak Museum for a guided tour of about 50 minutes covering the history and instruments of gugak. See traditional instruments up close and learn how different musical styles developed over time, connecting what you see with the cultural background you learned earlier. The museum tour is run by the museum itself, so other visitors besides our group may also join.

Finish with a live gugak concert

Finally, enjoy a live gugak concert of about 80 minutes featuring a varied program of Korean traditional music. A typical performance includes about 6 to 7 pieces, giving you a chance to experience different instruments, musical styles and ensemble traditions.

※ The itinerary is for reference only and may change depending on local conditions.

• Please check your mobile voucher in your email or the WAUG app.
• Meet your local guide at Umyeondang Hall of the National Gugak Center and show your mobile voucher.
• Valid only on the selected date and time.

Meeting point :
Umyeondang Hall, National Gugak Center
2364 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Meeting point info:
Meet at Umyeondang Hall (Building #2) inside the National Gugak Center. If you have trouble finding the place, please check the message sent to you before the tour.

Cancellation & refund

• Cancel up to 24 hours before the activity date for a full refund.

Restrictions

• Not suitable for children under 6 years old.

On-site information

• The tour is guided in English.
• The group is limited to 10 participants.
• The total duration is about 170 minutes.
• The museum tour is run by the museum, so other visitors may also join.
• Food, drinks and round-trip transportation to the museum are not included.

Other

• The itinerary is for reference only and may change depending on local conditions.