Haewoojae Museum (Mr. Toilet House): A Fascinating and Quirky Experience in Suwon, South Korea
Have you ever thought about visiting a museum dedicated entirely to toilets? At first, the idea might sound strange or even laughable—after all, how much can there really be to say about toilets? But trust me, after visiting the Haewoojae Museum, also known as Mr. Toilet House, I was amazed by how much I learned and how much fun I had. Located in Suwon, South Korea, this quirky museum manages to be both hilarious and deeply informative, shedding light on a subject most people don’t often talk about: sanitation.
Here’s everything you need to know about this unique museum, from its fascinating history to its fun exhibits and why it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
The Story Behind the Museum: Who Was Mr. Toilet?
The Haewoojae Museum wouldn’t exist without its eccentric and visionary founder, Sim Jae-deok, affectionately known as “Mr. Toilet.” Born in 1939, Mr. Sim earned the unusual nickname Gae-ddong-i (meaning “dog poop” in Korean) as a child—a name rooted in the old Korean superstition that such nicknames would protect children from harm or illness. In Mr. Sim’s case, it seems fitting for someone who later dedicated his life to improving global sanitation.
As the mayor of Suwon, Mr. Sim took sanitation seriously. He wasn’t just about building better bathrooms for his city—he aimed to change the way people viewed toilets worldwide. In 1999, he founded the Korean Toilet Association, and in 2001, he helped establish the World Toilet Organization in Singapore. This wasn’t just a token effort: his dedication earned him the title of “Hero of the Environment” from Time Magazine in 2008.
One of his crowning achievements was the construction of his personal home, shaped like a giant toilet. Named Haewoojae (which means “a place of sanctuary” in Korean), this house became a symbol of his work. After Mr. Sim’s passing in 2009, his family donated the property to the city of Suwon, transforming it into the Haewoojae Museum.
A Timeline of Haewoojae’s History
The museum’s journey is as quirky and inspiring as the man behind it. Here’s a quick rundown of how Haewoojae came to be:
- 1999: Mr. Sim founds the Korean Toilet Association.
- 2001: The World Toilet Organization is launched in Singapore.
- 2002: Seoul hosts the first World Toilet Summit.
- 2007: Mr. Sim completes construction of his toilet-shaped house.
- 2008: He is honored as a “Hero of the Environment” by Time Magazine.
- 2009: After his passing, the Sim family donates Haewoojae to Suwon.
- 2010: The museum officially opens its doors.
- 2012: The Toilet Cultural Park is added, expanding the museum into a larger experience.
- 2015: A new cultural hall is built, focusing on children’s education about hygiene.
Today, Haewoojae Museum stands as a testament to Mr. Sim’s vision: a world where sanitation is accessible to all.
What to See and Do at the Haewoojae Museum
The museum is divided into two main areas: indoor exhibits inside the main building and outdoor displays in the surrounding Toilet Cultural Park. Each section offers unique insights into the history, technology, and cultural significance of toilets.
Outdoor Exhibits
Before you even enter the museum, you’ll notice the quirky outdoor displays. Scattered around the Toilet Cultural Park are sculptures and installations showcasing the evolution of toilets through history. Some highlights include:
- Ancient Toilets: Models of toilets from different eras, including those used by Korean royals.
- Global Designs: Displays featuring unique toilet styles from around the world.
- Sanitation Sculptures: Fun and humorous artwork that brings the subject to life.
The outdoor area is both educational and a great spot for some lighthearted photos.
Inside the Main Building
The indoor exhibits take you on a journey through the history and importance of toilets. Highlights include:
- Toilet Evolution: Explore how sanitation systems have changed from ancient times to the present day.
- Cultural Significance: Learn about how different cultures approach sanitation and hygiene.
- Interactive Displays: Kids (and curious adults!) can enjoy interactive exhibits that make learning about hygiene fun and engaging.
- Global Sanitation Issues: The museum also tackles serious topics, such as the lack of proper toilets in developing countries and the environmental impact of modern sanitation systems.
One of the best parts of the museum is the playground area, designed for children to learn about hygiene in a fun, hands-on way. From washing hands to understanding how toilets work, it’s a great space for younger visitors.
Toilet-Shaped Architecture
Don’t forget to take a look at the building itself! The museum’s main structure is shaped like a giant toilet, a nod to Mr. Sim’s original house design. For the best view of the building’s unique architecture, head to the roof of the second building—from there, you can fully appreciate its toilet-like form.
How to Get to Haewoojae Museum
Getting to the museum is easy and convenient, especially if you’re traveling from Seoul.
- By Subway: – Take Subway Line 1 to Hwaseo Station. Then Exit through Exit B and take bus number 21. Tell the driver you’re heading to Haewoojae (해우재), and they’ll drop you off right at the museum.
- By Bus: – Several local buses also stop near the museum. Just look for routes heading toward Jangan-gu, Imok-Dong, 186-3.
- By Car: – There’s limited parking available at the museum, so arriving early is recommended.
Admission and Hours
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays.
- Admission: Free!
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in Suwon, there are several other places worth visiting:
- Hwaseong Fortress: – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning fortress is a short distance from the museum and offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Korean Folk Village: – Step back in time and explore traditional Korean culture at this living museum.
- Suwon Chicken Street: – Treat yourself to some of the best Korean fried chicken in the country.
Why You Should Visit Haewoojae Museum
When I first heard about this museum, I thought it was just a quirky tourist attraction. But after visiting, I realized it’s so much more. The Haewoojae Museum not only celebrates the humble toilet but also highlights its vital role in improving global health and hygiene. It’s a place that’s fun, educational, and thought-provoking all at once.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this museum is a unique experience you won’t forget. So, the next time you’re in Suwon, take a detour to the Haewoojae Museum. You might just walk away with a newfound appreciation for something as simple—and as important—as a toilet!
