National Gugak Center

The National Gugak Center, near Seoul Arts Center in Seocho-gu, works to preserve over 1,000 years of Korean musical heritage. Saturday performances of court music, court dance and folk music cost 10,000-20,000 won, played on instruments such as the gayageum (12-string zither) and janggu (hourglass drum). Screens show English subtitles, and on the first Saturday of each month the center stages UNESCO-recognized performances. The Gugak Museum shows old instruments for free, and the center runs hands-on drum sessions and 12-week instrument classes for foreigners.