For a fresh look at such historical events as the sinking of the Titanic, the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the first lunar landing, visitors may wish to visit Jejudo Island’s new Teddy Bear museum. The museum, which is divided into two galleries, features a Historical Gallery and an Art Gallery. In the History Gallery, significant events of the 20th Century are portrayed by costumed teddy bears, for example a Michael Jordan bear slam dunks his basketball, while nearby a Marilyn Monroe bear re-enacts her famous skirt raising moment.

In the adjacent art gallery, some of the World’s most popular artworks are depicted through the work of Bears. From Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to Michelangelo’s The Creation of Man to Da Vinci’s Last Supper, bears are used to re create these famous artworks. The Art Gallery also features bears re enacting some local Korean customs, including a Korean wedding. Also on display are several Louis Vuitton Bears, which at 230,000,000 won (nearly $200,000) were the most expensive bears ever to be auctioned at Christie’s Auction House. Completing the exhibit are some of the world’s smallest teddy bears, which are barely visible at just 4.5 millimeters.

The large garden area allows visitors to enjoy a leisurely outdoor picnic, while sharing a picnic table with a family of life-size teddy bears. The Museum also features a full-service restaurant and bar. A complete gift shop featuring more than 800 reasonably priced items, including teddy bears, bear jewelry and other souvenirs, is sure to please any teddy bear connoisseur. For visitors who must limit their visit to Seoul, the Teddy Bear Museum also operates a gift shop at Incheon International Airport, which is jam packed with bears of all sizes. The museum is open daily, year-round from 9 am to 7 pm with extended summer hours and admission is just 6,000 won ($5 US). More information can be found about the museum by visiting their website at www.teddybearmuseum.com or by calling the KNTO at 800/868-7567 x224.