Looking for Seoul Trick Eye Museum
A surreal escape for dreamers, families, and curious minds from around the world.
It was a rainy afternoon in Seoul when I stumbled into the Trick Eye Museum—half soaked, half lost in the vibrant maze of Hongdae. I didn’t know what to expect. But what I found inside wasn’t just shelter from the storm—it was magic.
I became a pirate on a sinking ship, a ballerina in a snow globe, a snack for a dinosaur, and a superhero flying through skyscrapers—all in one hour.
This isn’t just a museum. It’s a reminder of how beautiful it is to laugh out loud, to see the world with childlike eyes, and to play again—freely, unapologetically.
Subway: Ride Line 2 to Hongik University Station. Take Exit 9, then wander 10 minutes through street art, live music, and K-pop buskers.
Bus: Dozens stop near Hongdae. Use Naver Map or Kakao T for the best route.
By Foot: If you’re already exploring Sinchon or Mapo, take the scenic walk through the artsy alleys.
What is the Trick Eye Museum?
The Trick Eye Museum (트릭아이미술관) is not your typical art gallery. Instead of standing and staring at paintings, you’re part of the art—interacting with 3D illusions, stepping into scenes, and using augmented reality to bring static images to life.
It’s where you fight dragons, fall into waterfalls, ride unicorns, and become the star of mind-bending visual illusions.
And yes, it’s all Instagram gold.
Top Attractions Inside the Trick Eye Museum
AR Trick Eye Zone
Use the Trick Eye app to view artwork that comes alive—think fire-breathing dragons, melting faces, and dancing ballerinas.
Aqua Zone
Dive into ocean-themed illusions where you walk the plank, pose with mermaids, or escape sea monsters.
Fantasy Zone
Enter a world of magical realism—levitate on clouds, get caught in a giant ice cream cone, or balance on rooftops.
Love Museum (Adults only, separate ticket)
A quirky and humorous exhibit showcasing love and relationships through optical art. Not suitable for kids, but a fun twist for adult visitors.
Ice Museum
A chilly, real ice experience with ice slides, frozen sculptures, and igloos. Great for kids—and yes, it’s cold, so dress warm!
What to Eat Nearby: Local Cuisines in Hongdae
After your illusion-filled adventure, treat your taste buds to some of Hongdae’s hottest food trends:
Korean Fried Chicken (치킨) – Crispy, saucy, and best enjoyed with cold beer.
Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Spicy rice cakes with fish cakes, sold in cozy snack shops and street stalls.
Bingsu (빙수) – Fluffy shaved ice desserts topped with fruits, red beans, or Oreos.
Korean BBQ (삼겹살) – A must-try group experience; grill your meat right at the table.
Trendy Cafés – Try dessert cafés like Zapangi, 943 King’s Cross, or the area’s famous animal cafés for something unique.
Cultural Etiquette Tips
Even in playful places like Hongdae, it’s important to travel respectfully:
Ask before photographing others, even if they’re part of a public scene or street performance.
Use “Annyeonghaseyo” (안녕하세요) to greet shopkeepers or museum staff—politeness goes far.
Queue up politely—Koreans value orderly lines and good manners.
No shoes in some cafés or traditional spaces, so be prepared to remove them when asked.
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect Half-Day in Hongdae
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Arrive at Trick Eye Museum; explore AR and Fantasy zones |
| 11:30 AM | Chill at the Ice Museum or check out the Love Museum |
| 12:30 PM | Enjoy lunch at a Korean BBQ or fried chicken spot |
| 2:00 PM | Stroll through Hongdae shopping streets and cafés |
| 4:00 PM | Catch a live street performance or join a dance session |
Instagram-Worthy Tips
Download the Trick Eye App before your visit.
Bring a tripod or selfie stick for the best angles.
Pose boldly—this museum rewards creativity.
The wings mural outside is a must-shot.
Conclusion
As I left the museum, I noticed something: everyone around me—young or old, couples or kids, tourists or locals—was smiling. Genuine, silly, camera-filled joy.
The Trick Eye Museum gives you permission to be playful, even in a world that so often asks us to be serious.
So go. Jump into the frame. Flip reality on its head. Let Seoul surprise you in the most delightful ways.
