Korea Festivals

Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives

Jul 29 – Oct 25, 2026 · Gwangju & Jeollanam-do

The 2026 edition ran Jul 29 – Oct 25, 2026. 2027 dates have not been announced yet; this page is updated automatically when the organizer publishes them. Check the official site for the latest.

Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives
Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives. Photo: Korea Tourism Organization

Overview

Earthen Vessels: Stories of Our Lives is a special exhibition held at the National Gwangju Museum. By looking back at earthenware, a type of pottery which has been at the core of our daily lives for a long time, we can encounter the practicality, aesthetic sense, and the stories contained in the earthenware that has been passed down through tradition. This exhibition showcases over 300 artifacts, including a ribbed bottle and large jars excavated from the Cheonghaejin site in Wando.

Why go

This special exhibition at the National Gwangju Museum traces the history of Korean earthenware from ancient times through to more recent onggi, with over 300 artifacts on display. Highlights include a ribbed bottle and large jars excavated from the Cheonghaejin site in Wando, alongside sections on pottery kilns, stamped patterns, and pottery's role alongside celadon.

Getting there from Seoul

Take the KTX from Seoul (Yongsan or Seoul Station) to Gwangju Songjeong Station, the fastest rail option to the city. From there, a taxi or local bus/subway connection gets you to the museum at 110 Haseo-ro, Buk-gu. An express bus from a Seoul terminal to Gwangju is also an option if you prefer not to rail-transfer.

Tips

  • Admission is free, so there's no need to book tickets in advance.
  • The museum is open 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so plan your visit with enough time before closing.
  • With seven distinct sections plus two in-depth displays, budget a couple of hours to see everything, including the standout Cheonghaejin (Wando) finds.

Best for: history buffs, pottery and ceramics enthusiasts, museum-goers, families.

Program

Part 1: Capturing the Colors of Ancient States

Part 2-1: Adorning with Pattern Stamps

Part 2-2: The Emergence of New Pottery

In-Depth View 1: Pottery Kilns of Unified Silla

In-Depth View 2: Pottery, Accompanying Celadon

Part 3-1: Deeply Infused in Daily Life

Part 3-2: Pottery and Onggi Reflecting Changes of a New Era

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Festivals: Gwangju & Jeollanam-do

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Dates and programs can change. Check the official site before you go. Official site