This week on Jeju A to Z, Todd Thacker profiles Jeju’s first public art museum. The Jeju Museum of Art, here in Jeju City, features a large area for permanent and special exhibitions, a theater, parkland with plenty of space, works of art, and more.
[Report] Though Jeju is a pleasant place to spend your summer -- be it as a local or a visitor -- there are days when a little respite from the heat or the rain is definitely welcome. Fortunately, Jeju has a large number of interesting -- and air conditioned -- museums to chose from.

[Slug CG] 10 minutes south of Jeju City along 1139 Road

If you’re a fine art aficionado, then the Jeju Museum of Art has just what you’re looking for. It’s a mere 10-minute drive south of Jeju City along the 1139 Road.

As Jeju’s first public art museum, its proximity to the city, its collection, facilities, and grounds, all make it a valuable and attractive destination.

As you walk up to the entrance of the museum you encounter perhaps the building’s most memorable feature. It’s a large reflecting pool which makes the modern architecture of the museum look like it’s floating on water.

[Slug CG] 7,000m2 space includes special, permanent exhibition halls

Inside the 7,000-square-meter building is a beautiful example of multipurpose, integrated spaces. Facilities include a Special Exhibition Hall on the first floor, a Permanent Exhibition Hall on the second floor, as well as a Citizen’s Gallery and hall displaying the work of Jeju painter Chang Ree-suk (장리석).

[Slug CG] Museum grounds are spacious, picturesque

And before you head home, be sure to walk the museum grounds. There are benches, a walking path, and a large circular area for events, which is named Baeknokdam, after Hallasan Mountain’s prominent crater peak.

[Slug CG] jmoa.jeju.go.kr

The museum -- being a public institution -- has special art education and film appreciation programs which are held monthly in its lecture hall and movie theater. Check their website for the latest details. Admission to the museum is a very reasonable 1,000 won for adults.

[Slug CG] Todd Thacker

So, in the middle of a hot summer’s day if you’d like to simultaneously cool off and take in some exciting art work, remember the Jeju Museum of Art is both economical and close at hand.

Todd Thacker KCTV