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A museum not only represents a country's history and culture, but is also a space where the past, present, and future coexist, showcasing the depth of a nation's cultural heritage. Our first stop is the National Museum of Korea, the country's most iconic museum with the longest history.

Encountering the "Pensive Bodhisattva" in the "Room of Contemplation"

The "Room of Contemplation" is located on the second floor of the National Museum of Korea. It displays only two statues designated as National Treasures: the "Pensive Bodhisattva."

The Pensive Bodhisattva is depicted with the right leg crossed over the left knee, and the right hand gently resting against the cheek. With eyes slightly open and a faint smile on the face, the figure appears deep in thought, evoking a sense of calm, ease, and quiet contemplation.

Unlike other exhibition halls, the "Room of Contemplation" contains neither artifact descriptions nor display cases. There are no visitor guides inside the gallery, allowing visitors to focus entirely on the artworks themselves and interpret them freely. However, QR codes are placed at both the entrance and exit, providing access to detailed information about the exhibits.

With no display cases in the gallery, visitors can view the "Pensive Bodhisattva" from the front, sides, and back. This 360-degree, unobstructed viewing experience offers a completely different and more immersive way of engaging with the artwork.

The Towering "Ten-Story Stone Pagoda from the Site of Gyeongcheonsa Temple"

At the very back of the first floor of the permanent exhibition hall stands a tall, magnificent stone pagoda. At first glance, you may be struck by its ornate appearance; with a closer look, its soaring, skyward presence naturally inspires admiration. This pagoda is the "Ten-Story Stone Pagoda from the Site of Gyeongcheonsa Temple," built in the late Goryeo period.

Korea is rich in granite, so most stone sculptures are made from granite. However, the Ten-Story Stone Pagoda from the Gyeongcheonsa Temple site was constructed from marble, making it exceptionally valuable. In addition, unlike traditional stone pagodas with relatively simple exteriors, the walls of each level of this pagoda are carved with Buddhist stories and images of the Buddha. Its material and style are both uniquely significant.

If you look closely at the base of the lowest level, you will see carvings of lions, dragons, lotus flowers, and arhats, as well as scenes from the Chinese classic novel Journey to the West.