Seoul’s Hidden Dark History Guided Tour of Seodaemun Prison
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Seodaemun Prison, built in 1908 during Japanese occupation, is now a memorial site that tells the story of Korea’s struggle for freedom. This experience is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sightseeing in Seoul and explore a deeper side of Korean history.
On this Seoul walking tour, you will:
1. Step inside original prison cells and underground interrogation rooms.
2. Walk through the execution grounds and learn about the sacrifices of Korean independence activists.
3. Hear powerful resistance stories, including Yu Gwan-sun, a young student who became a national symbol of courage.
4. Gain insights from a professional guide with over 10 years of experience in Korean history.
This tour is a journey into Seoul’s dark history and the resilience that shaped modern Korea. If you are looking for unique things to do in Seoul and want to understand the city beyond palaces and shopping, the Seodaemun Prison tour is an essential part of your travel.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Professional guide fee
Entrance ticket to Seodaemun Prison History Hall
What To Expect
Dongnimmun Gate
1890년 한국이 세운 독립문에 대해 알아봐요
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Seodaemun Prison, constructed in 1908 during Japanese colonial rule. Once used to detain and execute independence activists, it now stands as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made. Walk through solitary cells, interrogation chambers, and the execution yard—spaces that still echo with painful memories. Hear the story of Yu Gwan-sun, a 17-year-old student whose courage during the March 1st Movement made her a national icon. By the end of this tour, you won’t just learn about Korea’s independence movement—you will feel the weight of history beneath your feet. Visiting Seodaemun Prison is a moving experience that goes beyond textbooks, allowing you to reflect on the courage, resilience, and sacrifices that shaped modern Seoul.
Options
Seoul’s Hidden Dark History Guided Tour of Seodaemun Prison
Reviews
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A delightful tour
JulianDavid M,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A detailed walk through of the Korean independence movement as well as a great overall explanation of the use of the prison.
If you’re curious about how Koreans see and understand things, this tour is a must!
aily2025,
Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This visit was deeply moving and truly inspiring. The museum itself holds so much history, and I’m so glad I had the chance to learn with her. She offered thoughtful insights that made the experience even richer. I highly recommend this tour — it’s one that will touch your heart! There were so many things I wouldn’t have understood if I had come alone. Through this tour, I was able to see everything from a Korean perspective and gain a much deeper understanding.
A Powerful and Insightful Experience
Cruiser62359300645,
Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The museum is filled with history, and our guide made it even more impactful. Her insights gave us a deeper understanding of what we saw. Highly recommended !
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