By senior curator Kate Morschel
Hallyu! The Korean Wave is in Canberra and we’re excited to share the history and creative energy of South Korea with you, your family and friends.
Whether you’re a dedicated K-drama fan, budding dancer, can sing along to all the catchiest K-pop tunes or are curious about other cultures, the exhibition offers something for every imagination.
Spot the stars
Check out dazzling original costumes from dramas such as Squid Game and Kingdom and K-pop groups including aespa and ATEEZ, along with PSY, who gave us Gangnam Style back in 2012.
Try the K-pop Dance Challenge and polish your dance moves with choreography by B.B Trippin, to see if you can keep up with the Korean pop music sensation.
Hear the hits with music from early K-pop icons through to today’s chart-toppers — you might even discover your new favourite song!
Marvel at the artistry of contemporary fashion from major Korean designers and appreciate how tradition influences current creations.
Link the past with the present and find the traditional painting style that inspired the animal characters in KPop Demon Hunters. Visitors can also discover the history of the distinctive Saja Boys’ gat (black brimmed hat).
Avoid the queues
Hallyu! is a blockbuster exhibition from the renowned V&A Museum in London and summer is one of the most popular times to visit the National Museum.
Book exhibition tickets online in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to avoid the queues. Take advantage of free parking on weekends, take a bus or walk from the city or lake.
Dive into K-culture
See all Season of Korea events and add any you’d like to attend to your 2026 calendar now, from our fine-dining Korean Feast in February to our Korean cultural festival in April.
There’s chicken and beer on the deck, hands-on workshops for all ages and family-friendly activities that dive deeper into the world of hallyu.
We also have a special Hallyu and Beyond display in the Gandel Atrium with stories from Australians whose work has been influenced by South Korean culture.
Make a day of it
Sample some hallyu-inspired food from our cafe, check out the special exhibition shop and don’t forget to share your favourite moments on social media and tag @nationalmuseumofaustralia. We love seeing visitors of all ages enjoying our exhibitions!
Extend your Museum visit by:
- taking advantage of the stunning lakeside location and relaxing in the Amphitheatre or Forecourt Garden
- booking a VR session to see The Great Kimberley Wilderness
- checking out the refreshed Landmarks gallery.
Inspired by your visit and want more?
Our summer edition of The Museum magazine complements the exhibition, with articles on the making of Hallyu! and guest authors including Korean–Australian actor Yerin Ha on her role in Bridgerton.
Read about screenwriter Soo Hugh’s contribution to Pachinko and life after K-pop with ZE:A member Kevin Kim. There’s also stunning cover art from Lucius Ha, Sophi Olding, Haein Kim or Han Dang.
