The Rebirth of PNU University Museum

Pusan National University (PNU)’s University Museum (UM) has a Gothic-style exterior, exuding a sophisticated atmosphere. Designed by the first-generation Korean architect Kim Chung-Up, it was initially constructed as a graduate school building in 1956 and later repurposed into the museum’s main building in 1994. The front of the building, with the marks of time and elegance, had remained concealed until the demolition of the Natural Science Building last year, leaving many students unaware of this appearance.

As the museum celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, it is on the verge of an official reopening following a 16-month-long environmental renovation centered around the museum. The newly completed exterior of the museum and the newly created “Saebyeokddeul” in front of it are expected to provide a fresh space for PNU members, bridging the past and present. On April 11th, “Channel PNU” met Lim Sang-Taek (Prof. of Archaeology), Director of the UM, and heard about the history and significance of the museum.

■The University Museum as History of PNU

The main and annex buildings of the UM are the oldest buildings constructed during the early days of PNU. In 1956, the museum annex of Rococo style served as the main building. After this renovation, the museum annex has been given a new name, “Munchangjae.” With a two-story stone building and a floor space of 108 pyeong (357m²), Munchangjae preserves 68 years of history.

Since its opening, UM has preserved Korean history, serving as a refuge for national treasures during turbulent times. Though the exact details remain unclear, during an unforeseen incident in 1956 that required cultural assets to be relocated from Gwangbok-dong, the UM had just been completed. Under the agreement between Yoon In-Gu, the first PNU president, and the Ministry of Education, 18,833 national treasures were transferred to UM. The UM was utilized as the temporary refuge of national treasures for about four years before their relocation to the National Museum of Korea.

After that, the area around the museum served as a pivotal site for the democratization movement. The site of “Saebyeokddeul” with its grass square is the historic location where the first treatment center was situated at the time of 10.16 Buma Democratization Movement. There is also a stone marker to memorialize Jeong Gwang-Min (Dept. of Economics, 78), the Chairman of the 10.16 Buma Institute of Democratization Movement, who led the Buma democratization movement. 

The UM embodies the character of an “archaeological” museum. Director Lim said, “Museums are categorized as general museum, archaeological museum, anthropological museum, etc. PNU museum focuses on exhibiting archaeological artifacts, with a particular emphasis on “excavation.” PNU has been particularly dedicated to excavating the ancient Gaya region’s Ancient Tombs in Bokcheon-dong.” The Ancient Tombs in Bokcheon-dong are representative tombs of the Three Kingdoms period and are the only ruling class tombs in Busan before the 6th century.

Moreover, in the UM, there are archaeological artifacts from Neukdo Island. It is located in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do, and is one of the sites of the Samhan period, characterized by the use of iron tools. For a long time, PNU has been excavating relics from Neukdo, which served as an international trade port during the Samhan period. The museum collection includes pottery from Japan’s Yayoi period, bronze mirrors and coins from China’s Han dynasty, and natural artifacts including animal bones. Director Lim stated, “These artifacts will be showcased on one side of the museum’s largest exhibition hall starting next month, allowing visitors to experience them.”

■Where the Past and Present Meet

The museum that has a long history is undergoing remodeling through this construction project and is preparing to unveil its new look in May. In addition to cultural heritage exhibitions, the main building of the UM will also operate a “learning commons” and a “book archive.” These spaces, designed for students to relax and study, will be located on the second floor, offering a panoramic view of the Saebyeokddeul. The existing art research room on the second floor will be relocated to the first floor.

While undergoing remodeling, the museum has preserved its unique characteristics. The exposed rafters on the ceiling retain the antiquity of PNU’s early buildings. According to the original plan, these rafters were supposed to be covered, but at the suggestion of Director Lim, they have been left exposed as part of the interior design.

Now, PNU members are caught by the expansive view surrounding the museum. Lee Na-Young (Dept. of Sociology, 22) said, “Before construction, I didn’t know the museum looked like this. But now, as it’s revealed without any cover, the beauty of the building is evident.” PNU President Cha Jeong-In expressed his anticipation, saying, “It is expected to host events such as weddings against the backdrop of the museum.”

The grass square in front of the museum is expected to open as a relaxation space for PNU members once the grass is fully stabilized. Park Ji-Won (Dept. of Polymer Science and Engineering, 22) said, “I always passed by this place during construction, so I didn’t expect it to be renovated so beautifully. But now, seeing how it’s finished, I feel like having a picnic here.”

Reporter Yoon Seo-Young

Translated by Lee Soo-Hyun