At the heart of Paris, the Korean Cultural Centre invites visitors to discover one of Korea’s greatest cultural treasures. Until 13 March 2027, the Seokguram Exhibition offers an immersive journey into the history of the Silla Kingdom, combining ancient sculptures, immersive technologies and contemporary creations.
How can visitors explore a thousand year old monument located thousands of miles from Paris ? This is the journey offered by the Korean Cultural Centre through its latest exhibition dedicated to the Seokguram Grotto. Running from 2 October 2026 to 13 March 2027, this exceptional exhibition is organised in partnership with the Korea Heritage Service, the city of Gyeongju and the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage.
A true masterpiece of Korean Buddhist art, Seokguram is one of the most remarkable testimonies to the civilisation of the Silla Kingdom. Through a journey combining history, art and sensory experiences, visitors are invited to uncover the secrets of this sacred site. It is a unique opportunity to discover a cultural heritage that remains relatively little known in Europe.
The exhibition ‘The Seokguram Grotto: The Millennial Secret of Buddhist Art’ is part of a growing interest in Korean culture in France, which is already evident through various cultural and creative initiatives.
Seokguram, an architectural masterpiece over a thousand years old
To understand the significance of Seokguram, it is necessary to look back at the history of the Silla Kingdom. Founded in 57 BC, the kingdom shaped the Korean Peninsula for almost a thousand years, until 935 AD. Its former capital, Gyeongju, still preserves numerous temples, archaeological sites and historical remains that bear witness to this flourishing period.
Located on Mount Toham, the Seokguram Grotto holds an unexpected secret. Contrary to what its name might suggest, it is not a natural cave. It is an entirely man made structure, built from carefully carved granite blocks assembled with remarkable precision.
Constructed during the Unified Silla period (668 to 935), the grotto houses an outstanding collection of Buddhist sculptures, including representations of Buddha, monks and Buddhist deities. Its architecture and artistic significance earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.
Immersive experiences combining tradition and modernity
The exhibition goes beyond a conventional historical presentation. It offers visitors several innovative ways to experience this cultural heritage. A monumental 360 degree projection, for example, brings the historic landmarks of Gyeongju to life, including Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto.
Accessibility is also an important part of the exhibition. Braille materials and tactile installations allow visitors to explore the artworks through touch.
The journey continues with contemporary creations inspired by the Buddhist aesthetics of the Silla Kingdom. Sculptures, installations and artistic objects reinterpret traditional materials such as hanji paper, lacquer, mother of pearl and gilding. A dedicated contemplative space, featuring Buddha statues made from traditional Korean paper and a symbolic Buddhist pagoda, also invites visitors to pause and reflect.
From 23 November, an additional experience entitled ‘Seokguram, an Infinite World’ will further enrich the exhibition. Through a hyper realistic reconstruction and projection mapping, visitors will be able to explore the grotto virtually and discover its protective deities. Interactive virtual wish lanterns will complete this experience.
An exhibition offering a journey to Gyeongju
With this programme, the Korean Cultural Centre offers much more than an artistic discovery. It provides an immersive introduction to Korean history and spirituality.
Visitors can also extend their journey through a dedicated space devoted to Gyeongju, located on the third floor and presented by the Korea Tourism Organization. Photographs, suggested itineraries and a stamp trail invite visitors to discover this former capital, often described as an open air museum.
A must see exhibition celebrating Korean cultural heritage
Bringing together a thousand year old heritage, digital innovation and contemporary creativity, ‘Seokguram Grotto: The Millennium Secret of Buddhist Art’ offers a distinctive cultural experience. It is an invitation to discover the treasures of the Silla Kingdom and gain a deeper understanding of the influence of Buddhist art on Korean history.
Practical information :
- Exhibition: ‘Seokguram Grotto: The Millennium Secret of Buddhist Art’
- Dates: 2 October 2026 to 13 March 2027
- Location: Korean Cultural Centre, Paris
- Additional immersive experience: From 23 November 2026
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