Blood & Tears: Korea Independence & Resistance Dark History Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Our history tour offers two compelling package options, each uncovering a different chapter of Korea’s hard-fought freedom. Choose one or experience both for a fuller understanding of Korea’s spirit and history.
PACKAGE 1:【Then: Fight for Independence】
Step back to Korea’s colonial era at Seodaemun Prison History Hall, where freedom fighters endured brutal torture and imprisonment. Visit Dongnimmun Arch, a symbol of lost sovereignty, then explore Dilkusha, home to an American journalist who exposed Japan’s atrocities. End at Tapgol Park, the birthplace of the March 1st Movement.
PACKAGE 2:【Now: Road to Democracy】
Explore Korea’s road to democracy at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History to understand postwar struggles, then wander Tongin Traditional Market for lunch. Then, visit Namsan KCIA headquarters and the Korea Democracy Foundation, sites of political oppression, surveillance and the brave fight for democracy.
You may choose one or both for fuller understanding.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Itinerary is subjected to traffic & weather condition.
This tour involves traveling by public transportation, so bringing strollers or wheelchairs may be inconvenient.
You may need to remove your shoes when visiting Dilkusha to help preserve the historic residence. Slippers will be provided on-site.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
【Then: Fight for Independence Tour】 Step into the brutal past of Korea’s independence struggle. This former prison held, tortured, and executed countless freedom fighters under Japanese rule. Walk through dark cells, witness torture chambers, and feel the pain of those who sacrificed everything for Korea’s freedom.
Dongnimmun Gate
【Then: Fight for Independence Tour】 A symbol of lost sovereignty and resilience. Built to celebrate Korea’s independence, it later stood as a silent witness to Japanese colonization. Once a gateway to freedom, now a solemn reminder of the nation's struggle to reclaim its identity.
What‘s Included
English Speaking Guide
Admission Fees
Public Transportation Fees during the tour
Meals
Travelers Insurance
Other Personal Expenses
Options
Now: Road to Democracy
Destination: National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, Tongin Market, Namsan (Former KCIA), Korea Democracy Foundation
Meeting Point: Please be in front of Gwanghwamun Station Exit 7 by 9:45am. Ktourstory guide will be there for you.
Then: Fight for Independence
Destination: Seodaemun Prison History Hall, Dongnimmun Arch(Independence Gate), Dilkusha, Tapgol Park(Cradle of K- Democracy)
Meeting Point: Please be in front of Dongnimmun Station Exit 5 (Line 3 Orange Line) by 09:25am. Ktourstory guide will be there for you.
Reviews
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Our guide, Joseph, was...
Joy H,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide, Joseph, was superb!! The tour was longer than I expected. It lasted from 9:50AM to 3PM. I felt exhausted at the end of the trip, but it was worth every minute of it. Joseph is very knowledgeable and friendly. My family had many questions throughout the tour because it was very first time learning about the dark history of Korea for most of us. He answered all of our questions with clarity and never got tired of our many questions. He also gave us detailed instructions on how to navigate the public transportations for us to explore other museums and interesting spots. For the tour, I high recommend everyone who is interested in Korean history and culture to experience it at least once. Though Korea is known for the pop culture, food, K-beauty, there is a very long history of how Koreans have been fending off the invasions from powerful countries and preserving the culture and language to this day. In order to truly appreciate all the Korean stuff, I think we need to understand the history. My family visited the War Memorial Museum the next day to learn more about the Korean War, and this visit was prompted by the Dark History tour. I think it would be great if War Memorial visit is also included to the tour!
Great day
Dan A,,Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was an interesting insight into Korea's colonial past. My guide Jonathan was really knowledgeable and knew his stuff. This is only a new tour but I would recommend doing the full day tour.
I highly recommend this...
Melissa S,,Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I highly recommend this tour. I learned so much, and have a deeper understanding of the push to democracy.
This was a very...
Chrysanthi L,,Jun 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a very informative tour about the struggles of the korean people to achieve independence and democracy. It was also very touching to see how their path to topple dictatorship was so similar to that of my people. Very knowledgable and approachable guide.
Excellent tour by...
Karen M,,May 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour by Jonathon, illustrating the numerous events where Korean citizens sacrificed their safety and even their lives to advocate for freedom for their country and countrymen. I was very moved by the sacrifices of the Korean people in the last 100 years and before. Jonathon also explained other events in Korean history that have shaped both South Korea and the world. I highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in history and current events. This tour is a relatively new offering and I am glad I was able to take advantage of it.
Great New Tour with the Dar History of Korea
smel1978,,Apr 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great morning learning the dark history of Korea with Gina. She was very knowledgeable and able to answer all questions. Highly recommend this new tour to people interested in a different side to Korea’s history. Good length and way to spend a morning! Unfortunately other people were very late to join and were less than enthusiastic during the tour making her job harder than it needed to be. Gina handled these inconsiderate guests with grace and was an excellent host under uncomfortable circumstances for her.
Great tour with many behind stories
Elsa L,,Apr 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was very interesting. Our tour guide Jonathan is very professional and knowledgeable. He is so well prepared and shared a lot about the Korean history (and many sad stories). It is kind of a half day tour but covered a lot which I learned a lot about the independence of Korea.
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Operated by TOURSTORY