The Audeum Audio Museum, established in June 2023, is the world’s first museum exclusively focused on the exploration of sound and audio technology. Michael Chung, the founder of the Korean audio company Silbatone Acoustics, came up with the idea and established this ground-breaking institution in Seoul, South Korea, as a memorial to his late father and as evidence of their shared love of sound.
A Symphony of Design
The museum’s façade resembles a collection of vertically arranged organ pipes, creating a visually captivating and unique structure as a rock formation. The exterior is made of aluminum louvers, which overlap to create a dynamic interaction of light and shadow, mimicking sunlight filtering through a dense forest canopy.
When you step inside, the museum shifts to a softer, warmer atmosphere, with extensive use of wood and natural stone. The “wood drape” detail, a design element that emphasizes the smoothness and raw texture of the wood, enhances the audio quality of the space. The museum also features specially engineered listening rooms, providing the ideal environment for various audio exhibits.
Photo: @eenomsiki
Tune In To The History of Sound
The museum offers an exciting collection of sound reproduction equipment that reflects the evolution of audio technology. Check out a wide range of artifacts, from the groundbreaking Edison phonograph to iconic Western Electric loudspeakers. Additionally, the museum features the Western Electric 12-A and 13-A Sound Systems, famous as the world’s first large cinema sound systems, which played a crucial role in the transition from silent films to “talkies”. You can also explore interactive displays that showcase the impact of sound on different aspects of society, from music to communication.
The Audeum Audio Museum explores the power of sound to inspire, educate, and connect people. By preserving the history of audio technology and fostering a deeper appreciation for sound, the museum is poised to become a leading institution in the field of audio culture.
Visiting the Audeum Audio Museum (오디움 박물관)
Location: 6, Heolleung-ro 8-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Opening hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
