National Gwacheon Science Museum Introduces Location-Based Digital Guide at Science Exploration Hall

First in Korea: Automatic Exhibit Information Provided Using Beacons

The National Gwacheon Science Museum is transitioning its exhibition viewing methods to a digital-based system.

On December 30, the National Gwacheon Science Museum announced that it would begin operating a location-based digital guide service at its Science Exploration Hall, marking the first time such a service has been introduced at a science museum in Korea. This system automatically provides exhibition information based on the visitor’s location, aiming to create a more intuitive and immersive exhibition experience.

Photo of the Digital Guide Mobile Application. Provided by the National Gwacheon Science Museum

The digital guide utilizes 206 beacons installed throughout the Science Exploration Hall to recognize visitors’ locations in real time and automatically deliver information about nearby exhibits. It offers details on how to interact with the exhibits, explanations of scientific principles, and explanatory videos, enabling visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the exhibition content.

This service is available through the official mobile application of the National Gwacheon Science Museum, which supports both iOS and Android operating systems. By installing the app, users can access exhibition commentary, recommended viewing routes, exhibition hall maps, and detailed information on 83 exhibits within the Science Exploration Hall.

The museum plans to analyze the location-based usage data collected through the digital guide to identify viewing patterns and visitor behavior for each exhibit, and to use these insights to improve the exhibition environment and enhance visitor services. All collected data will be processed in a way that individuals cannot be identified and will be used solely for the purpose of improving exhibition hall operations.

Coinciding with the official launch of the service on December 30, a digital guide opening event will also be held. Visitors who install the application and visit the event booth inside the Science Exploration Hall can receive souvenirs through a capsule draw event.

Han Hyungjoo, Director of the National Gwacheon Science Museum, stated, "The digital guide is a service that helps visitors actively explore the exhibition space and more easily understand scientific concepts," adding, "Based on the operational results at the Science Exploration Hall, we plan to gradually expand the service to other permanent exhibition halls in the future."