Oct. 02, 2026, 3:59 p.m. ET | 1 min read
People dressed as museum artifacts have gone viral in South Korea.
In September, thousands gathered in Seoul to witness the finale of the “Dress Like a Museum Exhibit” cosplay contest. The annual event, launched by the National Museum of Korea in 2024, has grown so popular that four regional contests were held this year. About 300 teams—including college students and government workers—came to life as temple bells, royal seals, tomb guardians, and other iconic Korean artifacts, effectively turning cultural heritage into a living showcase.
The award for the most adorable costume went to nursing student Jeon Eun‑seul, who portrayed a tiny porcelain vessel shaped like a leaping carp. She said that seeing the object in the museum’s online database instantly charmed her with its “goofy charm.” Another honoree, Lee Dae‑yang, dressed as the Pensive Bodhisattva, a celebrated bronze Buddhist statue that guides seekers toward enlightenment.
Mr. Lee said the festival fills him with pride, noting that it highlights “Korea’s amazing cultural heritage.”
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