I visited the Damien Hirst exhibition at MMCA Seoul, and honestly…
I finally understand why this exhibition is so hyped.
My visit was on March 21, just one day after the exhibition officially opened on March 20.
It was already completely sold out online 😭
🎟️ How I Got Tickets (Important Tip)
I really wanted to see it, so I kept checking the ticket site while heading to the museum.
👉 Surprisingly, cancellation tickets appeared BEFORE 10 AM (opening time!)
That’s how I managed to book my ticket.
- ✔️ Even if it says “Sold Out”, keep refreshing
- ✔️ Check especially right before opening time
⏰ Arrival & Waiting Line
I arrived around 9:50 AM, and the line was already HUGE.
Important thing to know:
- ✔️ Same line = online ticket holders + on-site ticket buyers
Once it opens at 10 AM:
- If you have a QR ticket → go directly inside
- Scan QR at the exhibition entrance
The system was actually pretty organized.
⚠️ On-site Ticket Warning
You can buy tickets inside the building, but…
👉 I heard the wait time is over 1 hour
- ✔️ Try for cancellation tickets first
- ✔️ Or arrive early (open run recommended)
🦈 Must-See Artwork
The piece I wanted to see the most:
👉 The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living
Yes… the famous shark.
Seeing it in real life is completely different. It’s huge, intense, and honestly a bit shocking.
“Is that a real shark?” was literally my first thought.
Since I entered right at opening time, I could still take photos comfortably.
💎 Another Iconic Piece
👉 For the Love of God
A real human skull covered with 8,601 diamonds.
Up close… it’s insane.
Beautiful but also slightly disturbing. That contrast is what makes it unforgettable.
🎨 Overall Experience
Even if you’re not into art (like me), you’ll still feel:
- ✔️ Unique
- ✔️ Surprising
- ✔️ Definitely worth seeing once
This is NOT a “pretty” exhibition. It’s more like something that makes you think.
💰 Ticket Price
✔️ Around 8,000 KRW
For this level of exhibition,
👉 I’d say it’s totally worth it.
🎨 Who is Damien Hirst?
Damien Hirst is a British contemporary artist known for exploring life and death.
His works are often shocking and controversial, but that’s exactly why they are so memorable.
You might even find yourself thinking: “Is this really art?”
⭐ Final Thoughts
👉 “Not a beautiful exhibition… but one that stays in your mind.”
