Pensive Bodhisattva Miniatures are one of the biggest hits of MU:DS, the National Museum of Korea's cultural products line / Courtesy of MU:DS
This is the first of two articles introducing noteworthy Korean heritage-inspired souvenirs.
As interest in Korean heritage grows both at home and abroad, so too does the market for heritage-inspired merchandise — souvenirs that move beyond generic trinkets and instead reinterpret cultural assets in contemporary, usable forms.
The most notable producer of these gift items is the National Museum of Korea, which has sold its official merchandise under the rebranded name MU:DS, a portmanteau of “museum” and “goods,” since 2022. These products aim to translate the value of traditional culture into creative, practical objects suited to modern life. One of the biggest hits is the miniature replicas of Pensive Bodhisattva statues Nos. 78 and 83, which gained unexpected popularity after appearing on BTS member RM’s social media. The items later expanded into limited editions, including one marking the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japan, featuring Owen N. Denny’s Taegeukgi flag in the figure’s hand, alongside more playful variations incorporating the K-heart hand gesture or a thumbs up pose.
Beyond these viral successes, MU:DS offers an extensive range of products, some developed by the National Museum Foundation of Korea, others selected through annual design contests. The Korea Heritage Agency also introduced its own lines inspired by royal palaces and court culture, while independent brands continue to reinterpret traditional motifs in increasingly diverse and innovative ways.
Below, The Korea Times staff writers have selected a range of noteworthy K-heritage souvenirs that reflect how Korea’s past is being reimagined for today’s global audience.
Celadon-inspired pouches and keychains from the National Museum of Korea's official merchandise brand MU:DS / Courtesy of MU:DS
This celadon vase-shaped pouch reimagines Korea’s ceramic heritage as a stylish everyday item. The design draws direct inspiration from the “Melon-shaped Ewer with Peony and Lotus,” an inlaid celadon piece from the National Museum of Korea’s collection.
Produced during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), celadon is celebrated for its technical mastery, translucent jade-like glaze and refined elegance — qualities that continue to influence Korean aesthetics today.
Made with jacquard fabric and finished with a metal kiss lock clasp, the pouch has an elegant curved silhouette that reflects the sculptural tradition of Goryeo celadon, where vessels were shaped after motifs from nature and daily life, including animals, flowers and human figures.
Source: Korea Times News
