Teddy Bear Museum | Jeju Island

The Teddy Bear Museum on Jeju Island is a delightful and whimsical destination, dedicated to showcasing the history and charm of the iconic teddy bear. Located in the popular Jungmun Resort area of Jeju, the museum is a fun and unique place for families, children, and teddy bear enthusiasts to explore. It offers a fascinating collection of teddy bears from around the world, as well as exhibits that feature teddy bears in various cultural contexts.

Overview

• Location: The Teddy Bear Museum is situated in the Jungmun Tourist Complex, near Jungmun Beach, and is easily accessible from major tourist spots in Jeju. It is part of a collection of attractions within the area, including Jungmun Saekdal Beach and the Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls.
• Established: The museum opened in 2001 and has since become a popular attraction for visitors of all ages, showcasing an extensive collection of teddy bears.

Key Features and Attractions

Teddy Bear Collection

• The museum houses an impressive collection of teddy bears from various eras and countries. The collection spans different historical periods, showcasing the evolution of the teddy bear from its early 20th-century origins to more modern versions.
• The collection includes classic teddy bears made by renowned brands such as Steiff and Gund, along with rare and antique pieces, some of which are over 100 years old.

Teddy Bear Dioramas

• One of the museum's highlights is its collection of themed dioramas, where teddy bears are placed in miniature scenes that depict famous historical events, famous movie scenes, and everyday life. These dioramas are carefully crafted, offering a creative and engaging way to experience both the teddy bear's cultural significance and historical events.
• For example, visitors can see teddy bears dressed in period costumes as they re-enact scenes from famous stories or significant moments in history, such as the Apollo moon landing, medieval times, and the Victorian era.

International Teddy Bear Exhibition

• The museum features an international teddy bear exhibition, where visitors can see teddy bears from around the world. This exhibition showcases how teddy bears are celebrated in different cultures and regions, and it provides insight into how the teddy bear has been embraced globally.
• From teddy bears dressed in traditional Korean hanbok to bears in European-style outfits, the exhibition highlights the teddy bear’s cross-cultural appeal and how it has become a beloved symbol of childhood around the world.

Famous Characters and Movie Scenes

• In addition to historical and cultural displays, the museum also features teddy bears dressed as famous characters from popular culture, including figures from fairy tales, movies, and television shows. For example, you might see bears dressed as characters from The Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
• This section is particularly fun for children and movie fans, as it brings iconic characters to life in a charming teddy bear format.

Interactive and Playful Atmosphere

• The museum is designed to be an interactive experience for children and families. The exhibits are often accompanied by fun activities and photo opportunities. Visitors can take pictures with large teddy bears or engage in hands-on exhibits, making it a playful and engaging experience for younger visitors.
• The museum also hosts events and seasonal exhibitions, so visitors may encounter special themes and temporary displays that add variety to the experience.

Teddy Bear Gift Shop

• No visit to the museum is complete without a stop at the museum’s gift shop, which features a wide range of teddy bear-themed merchandise. Visitors can purchase souvenir teddy bears, plush toys, books, and other teddy bear-related items. It's a perfect spot to pick up a keepsake of your visit.
• The shop offers teddy bears in various sizes and styles, including limited edition and special collection items, making it a favorite for collectors.

Teddy Bear Photo Zones

• Throughout the museum, there are photo zones where visitors can pose with life-size teddy bears or bear-themed installations. These are popular spots for fun family photos, where guests can take pictures with bears dressed in costumes or in whimsical scenes.
• These photo zones add an element of entertainment to the visit, allowing guests to capture memories of their time at the museum.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April to June): Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and the area around the museum is lush and green. You can enjoy a nice walk around the nearby Jungmun Resort area and then visit the museum for a fun and relaxing experience.
• Summer (July to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, so the museum might be a bit crowded, but it’s still a great time for families to visit. The museum is air-conditioned, making it a nice indoor escape from the summer heat.
• Autumn (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The changing autumn leaves in the surrounding area add to the atmosphere of the visit.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest season, making it a peaceful time to explore the museum without the crowds. However, Jeju can be quite cold, so be prepared for chilly weather.

Visitor Information

• Entrance Fee: The admission fee to the Teddy Bear Museum varies, typically around 10,000–12,000 KRW for adults, with discounts for children and groups.
• Hours: The museum is generally open every day, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons. It’s best to check the official website for up-to-date opening hours.
• Parking: There is parking available at the museum, so visitors arriving by car will find it convenient to park and explore the surrounding area.
• Accessibility: The museum is easily accessible for most visitors, with wheelchair accessibility and services for families with young children.

Conclusion

The Teddy Bear Museum in Jeju is a fun and charming attraction for visitors of all ages. With its wide range of teddy bear collections, creative dioramas, and international exhibits, the museum offers a lighthearted and educational experience. Whether you’re a teddy bear enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone seeking a unique cultural experience, the Teddy Bear Museum is sure to provide an enjoyable and memorable visit. Its playful atmosphere, combined with its rich collection of teddy bears, makes it one of Jeju’s more whimsical and delightful attractions.