The JAM, Jeju Aerospace Museum, is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and also a perfect place to stay dry when it rains, or simply to explore the largest aeronautical space in Asia. I visited Jeju Island in the summer, and as often happens during this season, it rained a lot during my stay. Between the downpours, I had the opportunity to discover many places. I was with my 16-year-old niece, and although she doesn’t have a particular interest in aviation, she is quite curious. After visiting the Arte Museum, an immersive art museum, I suggested exploring the Jeju Aerospace Museum.
Inside the Jeju Aerospace Museum
I had no idea about the size of this museum: 330,000 square metres over three floors, not to mention the outdoor exhibition. This makes it easy to spend a lot of time there. On that day, it was practically empty, which made the visit incredible. The Jeju Aerospace Museum is a new attraction and hasn’t been open for long, which surely explains the lack of visitors.
Organization of the museum
The museum covers both aviation and space travel. On the ground floor, there is a hall dedicated to the history of aviation. On the second floor, you will find the hall of astronomy and space.
Aviation History Hall
My favourite part of the Jeju Aerospace Museum, of course 😉 You can learn more about the history of aeronautical technology and the early years of the Korean Air Force. It actually reminded me of the aviation museum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as well as the Air Force’s history related to American history. A total of 35 decommissioned warplanes have been provided by the Korean Air Force, and they are displayed both in the gardens surrounding the museum and inside the Aviation History hall. All of these aircraft were used by the Korean Air Force. Some of those on display inside are suspended from the ceiling. I really appreciated that they opened up the interiors of the planes so we could have a look inside; it makes all the difference. We rarely get the chance to see the interiors of these amazing aircraft.
Next to the planes, there are a flight simulator, a drone simulator, and even pilot suits. Different sizes are available for taking photos in front of the jets. I even embarrassed my niece by putting on a Top Gun-style jumpsuit (which was far too big for me!).
Planes on display
Below is a selection of the aircraft on display inside the Jeju Aerospace Museum. It’s just a selection, as you can imagine how many planes there are. I’ve chosen the ones I find most interesting (though everything is subjective!).
North American F-86 Sabre: it is a supersonic American fighter used during the Korean War (1950-1953). It is one of the most beautiful fighters in the history of aviation. An aircraft that appeals to both pilots and aviation enthusiasts, capable of performing aerobatics at Mach 1 (the speed of sound, approximately 1,235 km/h). This plane flies as fast as the speed of sound!
North American P-51 Mustang: another iconic fighter, widely used during World War II as well as the Korean War.
Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter: “Freedom Fighter” seems paradoxical for a warplane. A name that reflects the idea of fighting for values of freedom and justice. It is a fighter jet used worldwide since the 1960s.
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II: A twin-engine jet fighter-bomber, the Phantom was used in many conflicts, including during the Vietnam War.
How things fly
Another really interesting part of the Jeju Aerospace Museum is “How Things Fly.” Although not everything is translated into English, I found this section particularly engaging. As a student pilot myself, I especially appreciated this part and was able to explain it to my niece thanks to the illustrations. I liked how they explain, in simple terms, how an aircraft flies and the different forces at play, as well as the principles and mechanisms of flight. This gallery features more models of aircraft and wings. It’s a project developed in cooperation with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington. I wonder if they have this section in their museum as well.
At the end of the visit to this section, you can take the controls of an aircraft and snap a few photos. So I had to insist that my niece try it as well. Her first comment was, “There isn’t much protection when flying!”
Astronomy and space
On the first floor of the Jeju Aerospace Museum building, the “Astronomy and Space” hall outlines the history of astronomy and the technologies used for astronomical observations in Europe and East Asia. Similar to the Aviation History hall, there is a section dedicated to the history of space exploration, as well as additional exhibitions divided into thematic areas.
There is even an observation tower dating back to the Silla Kingdom (57 BC to 935 AD). I had seen a similar tower in Gyeongju, so I immediately recognised what it was. Additionally, I met an astrophysicist during my stay at a temple near Gyeongju, who had mentioned these towers to me.
You can also discover a life-size replica of the Curiosity rover, the robot currently exploring Mars (since August 2012!). This NASA vehicle analyses the soil and atmosphere of the red planet, providing important information about its conditions.
The museum also features a 360-degree dome where visitors can explore the constellations. An interactive exhibition allows you to discover the signs of the Western zodiac. You simply need to enter your date of birth to illuminate your constellation projected on the dome.
Gift shop
La seule chose que j’ai regrettée, c’est le magasin de souvenirs. Ça aurait vraiment été super d’avoir des articles en lien avec le thème de l’aviation et ce musée en particulier, plutôt que des objets que l’on peut acheter un peu partout. Je pense qu’il y a une belle opportunité à saisir!
Exterior of the Jeju Aerospace Museum
Among the aircraft on display at the Jeju Aerospace Museum are iconic fighters and transport planes that reflect the evolution of military aviation in the country. They need not fear the elements outside!
Airplanes on display
Republic RC-3 Seabee: a very cute seaplane developed in the 1940s. It even made an appearance in James Bond, The Man with the Golden Gun (1974).
Cessna O-1G Bird Dog: It is an observation and reconnaissance aircraft, primarily used during the Vietnam War. Its nickname “bird dog” refers to hunting dogs that assist hunters in spotting birds.
North American T-28 Trojan: A jet trainer, the T-28A was used to train fighter pilots in the 1950s and 1960s.
Douglas C-54 Skymaster: The C-123K Provider is a military transport aircraft used by the United States Air Force, especially during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore both the interior and the cockpit. The nickname “Thunder Pig” comes from its distinctive sound.
Fairchild C-123K: Le C-123K Provider est un avion de transport militaire utilisé par l’armée de l’air américaine, surtout pendant la guerre du Vietnam. On peut visiter l’intérieur ainsi que le cockpit. Le surnom “Thunder Pig” vient du son distinctif qu’il émet.
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II: It is a multirole fighter produced from 1958 to 1981, famous for its use during the Vietnam War. Now retired, it had impressive performance, reaching Mach 2.2. Mach 2.2 means the aircraft can fly at 2.2 times the speed of sound (equivalent to 2,720 km/h).
And the Korean Air Force aircraft at the entrance of the museum, setting up the tone:
Bell UH-1B Iroquois: This helicopter is one of the best-selling helicopters in the world. It was used during the Vietnam War for troop transport and medical evacuation.
Cessna A-37B Dragonfly: An attack aircraft used for close air support missions and pilot training.
Information about the Jeju Aerospace Museum
Ticket
- Adults (19+): 10,000 won
- Children (3-12 years): 8,000 won
- Seniors (65+): 8,000 won
Address: Jeju Aerospace Museum, 218 Nokchabunjae-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Opening hours: Every day except Monday, from 09:00 to 18:00
