In Seoul’s Hongdae neighborhood, the War & Women’s Human Rights Museum tells the stories of women forced into sexual slavery during World War II and addresses violence against women in wartime. Across three floors, photographs, historical documents and contemporary art give context to the history, while recorded testimonies bring individual voices to the foreground. The museum also examines the continuing work for recognition and the rights of women affected by conflict. An audio guide is available in English, Korean and Japanese; allow at least two hours to take in the exhibitions.
The stories at the center of the museum
Founded in 2012, the museum focuses on women forced into sexual slavery during World War II, including Korean survivors of the Japanese military’s system of comfort stations. Its permanent exhibition gives attention to their experiences and to their ongoing fight to be heard and recognized.
The museum’s wider focus is women’s human rights in wartime. Its subject is not limited to one conflict or one group of victims: it also addresses the harm women face in wars and other forms of violence. The exhibits ask visitors to consider how those harms continue beyond the world wars.
Three floors of exhibits and audio
The museum occupies a compact, three-story space in the residential part of Hongdae. The displays include photographs, historical documents and contemporary artworks. An audio guide leads visitors through the exhibitions in sequence and adds context to the material on view. English, Korean and Japanese are available.
Survivors’ recorded testimonies are a central part of the visit. Hearing individual voices alongside the documents and images gives the history a personal focus. The exhibition also addresses women from other parts of Asia who were taken into wartime sexual slavery, as well as Korean crimes against Vietnamese women.
A visit that leaves room for reflection
The museum presents difficult history with care and connects remembrance to the continuing pursuit of justice and protection for women affected by conflict. Its exhibitions include expressions and material that are rarely found in national museums, according to the museum’s own description of its role.
Plan for at least two hours to listen to the audio and spend time with the exhibits. The entrance can be subtle, so look closely as you approach. A midweek visit may coincide with a demonstration by surviving women in front of the Japanese embassy; this is a separate event from the museum exhibitions.
Perguntas frequentes
What is the War & Women’s Human Rights Museum about?
It documents the experiences of women forced into sexual slavery during World War II, including Korean survivors, and addresses women’s human rights in wartime.
Is an English audio guide available?
Yes. Audio guides are available in English, Korean and Japanese.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow at least two hours to move through the exhibitions and listen to the audio guide.
