The museum is strategically situated in Dobong-gu because the original Dooly comic strip is set in Ssangmun-dong, which is located in this specific district.
Dooly the Little Dinosaur first appeared in the comic magazine 'Bomi' in 1983, making it one of the earliest and most recognizable Korean intellectual properties.
The building was designed to feel like an extension of the animation's world rather than a traditional white-cube gallery space.
The museum houses a comprehensive collection of early character sketches and original comic manuscripts from cartoonist Kim Soo-jung.
It is one of the few museums in South Korea dedicated entirely to a single fictional character's cultural impact and history.
The Dooly Museum is a specialized cultural institution dedicated to the life and adventures of Dooly the Little Dinosaur, South Korea's most iconic animated character created by cartoonist Kim Soo-jung. Located in the Dobong-gu district, the site honors the fictional neighborhood of Ssangmun-dong where the character famously resided in the original comic series. The museum features interactive displays, dioramas recreating the character's home, and a permanent exhibition documenting the evolution of Korean animation history. Visitors can engage with various multimedia stations that simulate scenes from the Dooly universe. The architecture itself incorporates whimsical elements reflecting the artistic style of the comics. It serves as both a historical archive for 1980s and 90s Korean pop culture and an interactive space for children and adults. The museum facility includes a library, a small theatre, and specialized zones dedicated to the surrounding supporting cast of the Dooly series.
The life-sized character statue located at the museum entrance is the most popular photographic landmark.
Check the official website for rotating special exhibitions that often feature collaborative displays with other classic Korean cartoons.
Allocate time to explore the rooftop area, which often features character-themed installations and views of the surrounding Dobong-gu area.
Bring a smartphone to fully utilize the interactive augmented reality elements integrated into the display panels.
Do not treat the exhibits as a playground; although interactive, the displays are historical artifacts and require careful handling.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.
Maintain a respectful indoor volume, as the space is frequently visited by families with young children.
