Seogosa arhats exhibition: returning to the sanctuary in Jeonju

The Seogosa arhats exhibition at Jeonju National Museum explores what it means for the figures to come together again. Admission is free and the exhibition continues through November 29, 2026. Look closely at expressions and gestures, then read about recovery and making. The associated October 15 colloquium is a separate event with its own date.

Seogosa arhats exhibition: Visitor information

• Exhibition: September 16–November 29, 2026; special gallery; free
• 10:00–18:00; last entry 17:30
• Closed January 1 and Seollal/Chuseok days; normally open Mondays
• A temporary closure is listed for December 14, after this exhibition; check current notices
• Colloquium: October 15, 13:00–18:00, museum auditorium; on-site registration
• 249 Ssukgogae-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju; telephone 063-223-5651

Begin with expressions and gestures

An arhat is an enlightened disciple of the Buddha. The exhibition introduces the Seogosa figures in the context of the sixteen arhats with Kashyapa and Ananda. Look at hands, gaze and posture before reading interpretation; returning to a figure afterward can make differences between apparently similar subjects clearer.

Read recovery alongside making

The official exhibition introduction recounts the theft of eight figures in 2004 and their later recovery in two stages. Consider the return of heritage alongside the appearance of the sculptures. The colloquium release states that a dedicatory text identifies the making date, 1695, and circumstances. Ask how records and scientific study contribute to that history.

Keep the colloquium separate

The October 15 event includes six presentations on history, bells, iconography, CT investigation, contents placed inside statues and pigments. Those interested can check on-site registration at the auditorium. The second image is its actual official poster, not a poster defining the full exhibition dates. The first is a 2015 museum exterior. A normal exhibition visit follows the November 29 end date and museum admission deadline.