The Pacific Ocean covers one-third of the Earth's surface—larger than all the landmasses combined. Across this vast and powerful expanse, people have launched canoes, discovered islands, and built their homes. The cultures and material heritage created across the Pacific’s many islands are collectively known as Oceania. Here, people have long traveled by sea, turning the ocean into a pathway that connects islands and communities. Guided by the stars, winds, and currents, they built a world shaped by distinct philosophies, artistic traditions, and cosmologies.

Mana Moana – Arts of the Great Ocean, OCEANIA is a special exhibition co-organized by the National Museum of Korea and the Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac in Paris. It presents a wide-ranging collection of traditional and contemporary artworks from the 18th century to the present. Visitors can explore large canoes, wood carvings, stone figures, masks, musical instruments, textiles, and adornments—objects that vividly reflect the lifeways and spiritual beliefs of Oceanic cultures.

In many Polynesian languages, mana refers to the sacred power believed to reside in all beings and things, while moana means the vast ocean. For the peoples of Oceania, the ocean is more than a physical environment—it is a sacred space and a source of connection. In their worldview, mana is the force that links people with nature, ancestors, and the cosmos. It is a reminder of the deep respect for all living things and the belief in coexistence rather than domination. Through this exhibition, we invite you to experience the creative expressions of Oceanic cultures—and to reflect on the diverse ways humanity finds meaning and belonging on this shared island we call Earth.

■ Exhibition Details

 - Title: Mana Moana – Arts of the Great Ocean, OCEANIA

 - Dates: April 30 (Wed) – September 14 (Sun), 2025

 - Venue: Special Exhibition Gallery 2, National Museum of Korea

 - On View: Approximately 180 artworks from the 18th to 20th centuries, including large canoes, carvings, stone figures, musical instruments, adornments, and textiles

 - Organized by: National Museum of Korea and the Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac (Paris)

 - Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

               Wednesday & Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM