Intro: Joining the Halmonis' Powerful Journey

The location of the War and Women's Human Rights Museum is unique. Unlike other museums, it is a remodeled residential home located in a residential area. The museum also uses distinctive architectural features and a unique exhibitional sequence to help visitors empathize with the emotional experiences of the Halmonis. Rather than the typical floor-by-floor sequence, the exhibitions begin in a dark underground space along a narrow stone path to the side of the building. This is a feature that reflects the severance from the world the Halmonis experienced and the weight of history. As you emerge from this underground section, you see photos and the pleas of Halmonis arranged along the staircase. Their pained voices, however, gradually shift into voices of hope as the exhibit progresses into a brighter space.

Welcoming Room: The Beginning of a Journey 

This is a space welcoming you to the museum where you can purchase a ticket containing a written description of one Halmoni’s life and build a connection with her. You can experience a video of butterflies flapping their wings freely through the walls of violence and discrimination.

Gravel Road: Into the Fire

Walking along a rough stone path hearing the sound of cannons firing, you enter the period of suffering that the victims had to endure. Following the row of photographs of victims hanging on both walls, you head into a dark basement.

Basement Exhibit: Her Life

The basement exhibit, with scenes of a battlefield and comfort station in the background, captures the painful lives of the Halmonis. Here, you meet the Halmoni—whom you first met through your ticket—through video. This dark, narrow space reflects the severance from the world and weight of history that the victims have endured.

Staircase Exhibit: The Wall of Appeal

The pained voices of Halmonis echo throughout the walls along the stairs adorned with photos. As you move into the brighter upstairs, however, the victim’s messages gradually shift into voices of hope hoping no one experiences the pains they have endured. Together, the photos of Halmonis along with their pleas in Korean, English, and Japanese create a space that you will hold deep in your heart.