South Korea has made history by unveiling its first-ever permanent Islamic art gallery at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul — a major milestone celebrated by KOREA.net.
The new gallery, titled “Islamic Art: A Magnificent Journey,” marks a bold step toward embracing global cultures. Created in collaboration with the world-renowned Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, the exhibition reflects South Korea’s growing fascination with the beauty, depth and legacy of Islamic civilization.
Museum officials say the partnership aims to open a window into the vast world of Islamic art — showcasing centuries of craftsmanship, breathtaking patterns, and artistic brilliance that shaped regions from the Middle East to Central and South Asia.
Visitors can now explore a carefully curated selection of masterpieces featuring intricate designs, geometric perfection, and diverse materials that define Islamic artistic traditions. The experience highlights how these aesthetics evolved and travelled across continents over hundreds of years.
Leaders at the National Museum call the gallery’s launch a powerful step toward strengthening cultural exchange between South Korea and the Muslim world — offering Korean audiences a rare opportunity to engage with the richness and diversity of Islamic heritage.
Founded in 1945 and housing more than 220,000 artifacts, the National Museum of Korea is the country’s most prominent institution for history, art, and cultural preservation. Meanwhile, the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar — designed by legendary architect I. M. Pei and opened in 2008 — holds one of the world’s most extensive and iconic Islamic art collections.
This new gallery is more than an exhibition — it’s a cultural bridge, a celebration of beauty, and a journey through one of the world’s most influential artistic traditions.
