Tteok Museum

   Coordinates:
   
       37.5794°N 
       126.9862°E
   

The Tteok Museum is a museum located in Seoul, South Korea, dedicated to the history and cultural significance of tteok, a traditional Korean rice cake. The museum offers insights into the various types of tteok, their preparation methods, and their role in Korean culture and celebrations.

History

The Tteok Museum was established in 2002 by the Institute of Traditional Korean Food. The museum was founded with the aim of preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Korean rice cakes, which have been an integral part of Korean cuisine for centuries. The museum is situated in the Jongno District, a historic area of Seoul known for its cultural landmarks.

Exhibits

The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the diversity of tteok. Visitors can learn about the different ingredients used in making tteok, such as glutinous rice, red beans, and mugwort. The museum also displays traditional tools and utensils used in the preparation of tteok, including stone mortars and wooden molds.

One of the highlights of the museum is the "Tteok of the Month" exhibit, which features a different type of tteok each month, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about seasonal variations and regional specialties.

Cultural Significance

Tteok holds a special place in Korean culture, often being associated with celebrations and rituals. It is commonly served during Korean New Year (Seollal), Chuseok (harvest festival), and other important occasions such as weddings and birthdays. The museum educates visitors on the symbolic meanings of different types of tteok and their roles in Korean traditions.

Educational Programs

The Tteok Museum offers a range of educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages. These programs include hands-on tteok-making classes, where participants can learn to make their own rice cakes using traditional methods. The museum also hosts lectures and seminars on the history and cultural significance of tteok.

Location and Accessibility

The Tteok Museum is located at 164-2, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and subway lines serving the area. The museum is open to the public throughout the year, with guided tours available in multiple languages.

Related pages

• Korean cuisine
• List of museums in South Korea
• Seoul

References

Tteok Museum(link). Tteok Museum Official Website.

Accessed October 15, 2023.

• Jong-Il,

 The Art of Korean Rice Cakes, 
  
 Korean Food Foundation, 
 2010,

The entrance to the Tteok Museum in Seoul, South Korea.