Gangneung Municipal Museum is located within Ojukheon, the birthplace of Master Yulgok Yi I and his mother, Shin Saimdang. The museum preserves their legacy and displays relics of Yulgok as well as artworks by Shin Saimdang and her family. In addition, the museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions, cultural education programs, and academic activities, establishing itself as one of Gangneung’s representative attractions as a city of traditional culture.

Ojukheon in Gangneung, the birthplace of the figures featured on Korea’s 5,000 won and 50,000 won banknotes, offers both permanent and special exhibitions. Permanent exhibition spaces include Munseongsa Shrine, Ojukheon House, Yulgok Memorial Hall, Local Folk Museum, History & Culture Hall, Outdoor Exhibition Area, and Daegwallyeong Museum. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk in a natural setting while experiencing various exhibitions that highlight the significance and value of Master Yulgok.

Various themed exhibitions and special exhibitions are held throughout the year, so it is highly recommended to plan your visit accordingly to experience these special displays. Every year from October 25 to 26, a memorial rite honoring the virtues of Master Yulgok is held. Additionally, the “Hansongjeong Wild Tea Ceremony,” an event where tea is shared at the historic tea site Hansongjeong, takes place annually in October. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip to coincide with these events.

Tickets for Ojukheon and the Municipal Museum are available from 09:00 to 17:00. Visiting hours are from 09:00 to 18:00. The site is closed on January 1, Seollal, and Chuseok, but Munseongsa Shrine within Ojukheon remains open year-round. Gangneung citizens can enter free of charge upon presenting valid ID.

The package ticket, available only at Ojukheon, allows visitors to select desired attractions and purchase admission tickets at discounted prices. This is highly recommended for travelers seeking a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Gangneung’s major attractions.

Ojukheon itself is a must-see, as it represents a detached building of an upper-class residence from the early Joseon period. It illustrates the architectural transition from the Jusimpo style to the Ikgong style, offering valuable insight into early Joseon residential architecture. It is also the birthplace of Master Yulgok Yi I, adding to its historical significance.

The Yulgok Memorial Hall displays works related to Shin Saimdang, Yulgok Yi I, and Oksan Yi U. Shin Saimdang’s famous “Chochungdo” (grass-and-insect paintings) and calligraphy are exhibited here. Among Yi I’s works, the handwritten manuscript of “Gyeokmongyogyeol” is featured. A particularly noteworthy artifact is the inkstone engraved with calligraphy personally written by King Jeongjo after reviewing it, making it a must-see piece.

The museum also offers lecture programs for adult residents of Gangneung, providing opportunities to learn about the city’s history, traditional culture, and arts through museum tours and educational sessions.

The “Daehyeon Yulgok Yi Seonsaeng Festival” consists of ritual ceremonies, literary events, and celebratory activities. Literary events include classical Chinese poetry writing contests and calligraphy competitions, while celebratory events feature calligraphy exhibitions and rubbing exhibitions.

The “Hansongjeong Wild Tea Ceremony” is held at Hansongjeong, a historic site where Hwarang youths of the Silla period practiced self-cultivation and enjoyed tea. Visitors can experience and immerse themselves in traditional tea culture. Those planning to visit Ojukheon and the museum are strongly encouraged to schedule their trip during these events.