The World’s Oddest Museum Awaits
As I stepped through the entrance of Mr. Toilet House, the self-proclaimed “Toilet Museum” in Suwon, South Korea, I was greeted by a massive golden statue of a turd. Yes, you read that correctly – a giant, gleaming poop sculpture. It was at that moment I knew this was going to be an… interesting visit.
You see, I consider myself a bit of a quirky museum connoisseur. From the Spam Museum in Minnesota to the Pencil Museum in England, I’m drawn to the weird and wonderful. But the Toilet Museum in Suwon might just take the cake (or should I say, the toilet seat?) for the most peculiar exhibition I’ve ever encountered.
A Lifelong Obsession
The story behind this bizarre attraction is equally fascinating. The museum is the brainchild of Sim Jae-duck, the former mayor of Suwon, who was affectionately known as “Mr. Toilet.” Sim’s fascination with all things lavatory-related began at a young age – he was actually born in an outdoor toilet, which led to a lifetime of toilet-themed teasing from his peers.
As the story goes, Sim grew up to become mayor of Suwon and founded the World Toilet Association in 2007, with a mission to “establish advanced toilet culture and contribute to humanity.” Talk about a niche passion project!
When Sim passed away in 2009, his family donated his rather unconventional home to the city, transforming it into the Toilet Museum we know today. And let me tell you, this place is anything but conventional.
A Toilet-Themed Wonderland
Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by the sheer level of attention to detail. Every inch of the former residence has been converted into a shrine to all things toilet-related. The ground floor, which used to be the living room, now houses a comprehensive history of toilet evolution, from ancient chamber pots to modern-day marvels.
But the true pièce de résistance has to be the bathroom itself. Rather than tucked away in a discreet corner, Sim insisted that the toilet be the centerpiece of the home. Encased in glass, the throne sits right in the middle of the room, offering a clear view into the “living room” for anyone doing their business. Talk about living life on the edge (or should I say, the edge of the seat?).
A Whimsical Outdoor Exhibit
As if the indoor exhibits weren’t enough, the Toilet Museum also boasts an expansive outdoor Toilet Culture Park, where visitors can explore a delightfully bizarre menagerie of toilet-themed sculptures and displays.
From a golden winged turd statue (the museum’s mascot, appropriately named “Toile”) to graphic depictions of people using the facilities, this garden is a veritable treasure trove of scatological surprises. I couldn’t help but giggle as I wandered through, marveling at the sheer audacity of it all.
According to a curator at the museum, the goal is to “create an environment where people feel at ease discussing toilets and their amenities openly.” Well, mission accomplished, I’d say!
An Educational Experience
But the Toilet Museum is not just about shock value and novelty – it also serves an important educational purpose. The exhibits delve into the history and science of toilets, highlighting the crucial role they play in public health and sanitation.
For example, one display explores the mechanics of how toilets function in zero gravity, shedding light on the mysteries of space-based waste management. Another showcases the evolution of flushing toilets and the globalization of the “Toilet Culture Movement” championed by Sim Jae-duck.
Even the children’s interactive area, with its slide, farting sounds, and poop-themed games, manages to sneak in some valuable lessons about healthy bowel habits. Who knew a toilet-themed playground could be so… informative?
A Quirky Gem Worth a Visit
As I bid farewell to the Toilet Museum and made my way back to my hotel in Seoul, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for Sim Jae-duck’s unique vision. What could have been a tacky, gimmicky attraction has instead blossomed into a genuinely fascinating and educational experience.
Sure, the Toilet Museum is undoubtedly the quirkiest museum I’ve ever visited, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s a celebration of the everyday, a testament to the power of embracing life’s more unusual quirks. And who knows – maybe it will even inspire you to take a closer look at the humble toilet, the unsung hero of modern civilization.
So if you find yourself in Suwon, South Korea, be sure to add the Toilet Museum to your itinerary. Just remember to bring your sense of humor (and maybe a strong stomach) – this is one museum experience you won’t soon forget.
