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Hittite exhibition brings Türkiye’s ancient heritage to South Korea

Artifacts from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums showcased at the "Hittites" exhibition in South Korea. Artifacts selected from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums are on display at Türkiye's exhibition in South Korea. (Photo via Minister Ersoy's Social Media Account)
By Koray Erdogan
Mar 8, 2025 4:41 PM

Türkiye’s ancient heritage has made its way to South Korea with the opening of the ‘Hittites’ exhibition at the Seoul Baekje Museum. The exhibition, featuring 212 artifacts from Türkiye, offers visitors a glimpse into the Hittite civilization, which emerged on the historical stage in the 17th century B.C.

Opening ceremony of the "Hittites" exhibition by Türkiye in South Korea, with attendees and displays.
The opening of Türkiye’s “Hittites” exhibition in South Korea. (Photo via Minister Ersoy’s Social Media Account)

The exhibition aims to strengthen cultural ties between Türkiye and South Korea, showcasing selected artifacts from the museums of Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk.

The Hittites, known for their rich cultural legacy, are presented on an international platform, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with Türkiye’s historical wealth.

Artifacts from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums showcased at the "Hittites" exhibition in South Korea.
Artifacts selected from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums are on display at Türkiye’s exhibition in South Korea. (Photo via Minister Ersoy’s Social Media Account)

Celebration of cultural exchange

At the exhibition’s opening, General Director of Cultural Assets and Museums, Birol Incecikoz, expressed his satisfaction in sharing the cultural and artistic richness of the Hittites with an international audience. The artifacts had previously been displayed at the Gimhae National Museum, where they attracted over 37,000 visitors.

With a population of 23 million, Seoul presents a significant stage for promoting Türkiye’s cultural heritage to a broader audience. The exhibition, which runs until June 8, invites art enthusiasts to explore the lasting influence of the Hittite civilization.

Strengthening ties through art

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy highlighted the importance of the exhibition on his social media account, stating: “We brought Gobeklitepe to Rome, and it received great interest. Now, it’s time for the Hittites. The ‘Hittites’ exhibition at Seoul Baekje Museum brings thousands of years of Anatolian heritage to South Korea. The 212 artifacts from Türkiye connect visitors with the Hittites, who appeared on the historical scene in the 17th century B.C. The pieces selected from the museums of Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk will further strengthen cultural ties between Türkiye and South Korea.”

Artifacts from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums showcased at the "Hittites" exhibition in South Korea.
Artifacts selected from Corum, Bogazkoy, and Alacahoyuk museums are on display at Türkiye’s exhibition in South Korea. (Photo via Minister Ersoy’s Social Media Account)

Exploring Hittites with panel of experts

In addition to the exhibition, the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency, in collaboration with Seoul Baekje Museum and Gimhae National Museum, will organize the ‘Türkiye-Hittites International Academic Conference’ on April 18.

Renowned experts, including Professor Andreas Schachner, Professor Fikri Kulakoglu, Dr. Onder Ipek, and Bogazkoy Museum Director Resul Ibis, will participate as speakers, offering scientific insights into the Hittite civilization.

The exhibition and conference represent a significant step in bringing Türkiye’s cultural heritage to the global stage, merging ancient history with contemporary academic discourse.

Last Updated:  Mar 8, 2025 4:41 PM