Free Admission Every Wednesday? What You Should Know About the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

“Free Museum Wednesdays—Is It True?”

On a quiet Wednesday afternoon, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) in Seoul sees an unusual crowd. Word has spread that admission is free on Wednesdays—but is that really the case?

“Yes, It’s True—But With Conditions”

For the entire month of May 2025, the MMCA is offering free admission every Wednesday and on May 18th (International Museum Day) as part of Korea’s “Museum and Art Gallery Week.” This applies to all four MMCA branches: Seoul, Gwacheon, Deoksugung, and Cheongju.

However, visitors should take note: some branches—including Gwacheon, Deoksugung, and Cheongju—are closed on Wednesday, May 7th, so checking the schedule in advance is essential.

The museum also participates in “Culture Day” on the last Wednesday of every month, during which certain exhibitions are either free or available at a discounted rate. This is part of a national initiative to make cultural experiences more accessible to the public.

“Students, Night Visitors—You’re in Luck Too”

Good news for youth and college students: Anyone aged 24 or younger, including undergraduate students, can enter for free year-round simply by presenting a valid ID. This policy aims to support cultural engagement among younger generations.

In addition, the Seoul and Deoksugung branches host evening hours every Wednesday and Saturday, from 6 PM to 9 PM, during which admission is free. These extended hours are especially popular with working professionals looking for a cultural break after office hours.

“Art That Comes Closer—Make Wednesdays Count”

Free admission is just the beginning. On Wednesdays, MMCA becomes more than a museum—it becomes a gateway to experiencing modern and contemporary art in your everyday life. Whether you’re exploring during daylight or enjoying a quiet evening visit, the museum offers a refreshing escape into creativity and reflection.

With initiatives like these, MMCA continues to lower the barrier to art appreciation. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to visit, this Wednesday might just be it.

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