Review of a Special Exhibition at the Seoul Museum of History: A Lunchtime Stroll
‘2036 Seoul, Second Olympics’ Special Exhibition
During my lunch break, I visited the ‘2036 Seoul, Second Olympics’ special exhibition held at the Seoul Museum of History plaza. The exhibition, which commemorates the glory of the 1988 Seoul Olympics and hopes for the bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, was an interesting time that connected the past and the future. It was a special experience where I could feel the excitement of 1988 and the anticipation for 2036 simultaneously in a short time.
Memories and Achievements of the 1988 Seoul Olympics
As soon as I arrived at the museum, the first thing that caught my eye was the ceremonial bus that was used at the time. This bus was used by the IOC chairman and distinguished guests during the 1988 Seoul Olympics, and its interior was decorated like an office, allowing me to feel the class of that era. Posters displaying the sports of the time were exhibited nearby, and the dynamic designs of cycling, equestrian, and soccer were impressive.
In particular, the exhibited guitar and musical instruments were used by the group Korea, which sang the Olympic theme song ‘Hand in Hand’, and I could also see their stage costumes. Along with this, various souvenirs such as the Olympic torch, commemorative coins, and subway tickets vividly conveyed the excitement of the time. These relics reminded me of the passion and hope of that time.
Another Dream with Hodori
In one corner of the exhibition space, the Hodori doll, the mascot of the Seoul Olympics, was located. Seeing Hodori, who greets visitors with a bright smile, I remembered the Olympic scenes I watched on TV as a child. Next to Hodori, the number ‘2036’ was installed in large letters, containing the wish to host Seoul's second Olympics.
Hodori was a symbol of the pride and passion of Koreans at the time. In this exhibition, I was able to remember the Olympic spirit of the past through Hodori and feel the anticipation for the new goal of 2036.
Imagining the Changes and Future of Seoul
This exhibition stood out because it didn't just look back on the past, but also made us imagine the development and future of Seoul. I could compare how various areas of Seoul, including Songpa-gu, changed with the hosting of the 1988 Olympics and vividly feel the changes in urban development and citizens' lives.
In addition, the exhibition introduced an economical hosting plan that utilizes existing infrastructure, presenting a vision for an environmentally friendly and sustainable Olympics. This was a part that showed the possibility that hosting the 2036 Seoul Olympics could have a positive impact on the city and its citizens. In particular, the plan to recycle existing stadiums and reduce carbon emissions came across as a good example of sustainable urban development.
In a Short Break During Lunchtime
Although it was an exhibition I visited during a short lunch break, I was able to have a special experience that connected the past and the future. This exhibition will be held until March 9th and is free to view, so I recommend that those who are interested visit. It’s a perfect place to take a walk near Gwanghwamun and stop by!
This special exhibition held at the Seoul Museum of History left me with many thoughts, presenting a vision for the future we will create while reminiscing about the glory of the past. It was the perfect choice to visit during a lunch walk, and I would definitely like to visit again if there are any more interesting exhibitions like this.
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