Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)

  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)
  • Seodaemun Independence Park (서대문독립공원)

Explanation

Seodaemun Independence Park was built on the former Seoul Detention Camp. It was used to imprison thousands of Korean independence activists until the liberation from the Japanese occupation on August 15, 1945, as well as the political prisoners during the political turmoil in the 1960s. When the prison was moved to Uiwang-si, Gyeonggi-do in November 1987, the area was restored and turned into a memorial park in August 15, 1992 to honor the sacrifices of the martyrs. The park preserves seven prison buildings, an execution ground, underground women’s prison, and the March 1st Movement Monument that has been moved from Tapgol Park in Jongno.

One of the most significant monuments of the Seodaemun Independence Park is Dongnimmun Gate (Independence Gate), which has been designated a Historic Site. Nearby is Dongnipgwan (Independence Hall), originally called Mohwagwan, which was used to greet Chinese envoys during the Joseon dynasty. Today, the hall enshrines 2,327 tablets inscribed with the names of Koreans who died for the cause of national independence. Standing right next to Dongnimmun Gate are the remnants of Yeongeunmun Gate, another Historic Site. Other sights inside the park include the Patriotic Martyr Monument, Declaration of Independence Monument, and Statue of Dr. Seo Jae-pil, who was an independence activist and publisher of Korea’s first independent newspaper. The main highlight of the park is the Seodaemun Prison History Hall, a former prison building that was renovated into a history museum.


Inquiry

+82-2-3140-8305


Information Use

Contact and Information : • 1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330
(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
• For more info: +82-2-3140-8305

Opening day : August 15, 1992

Parking facilities : Available

Day off : N/A (Open all year round)

Hours : Open 24 hours


More information

Available Facilities
Visitors center (management office), Patriotic Martyr Monument, Statue of Dr. Seo Jae-pil, Dongnipgwan (Independence Hall), Declaration of Independence Monument, Dongnimmun Gate, Seodaemun Prison History Hall, Lee Jina Memorial Library

Admission Fees
Free

Restrooms
Available

Interpretation Services Offered
Not available

Location

251, Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Samcheon 2(i)-dong Makgeolli Street (삼천 2동 막걸리골목)

Samcheon 2(i)-dong Makgeolli Street (삼천 2동 막걸리골목)

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Damyang Safety Experience Training Center (Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency) 담양 안전체험장(안전보건공단)

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Damyang Safety Experience Training Center offers programs to raise safety awareness by providing hands-on experiences of accidents that can occur in daily life. There are around 36 experience programs with a focus on the prevention of accidents such as fire, entrapment, and electric shock, as well as first aid. The VR zone at the center offers a vivid experience of various accidents and accident prevention measures, making the training more engaging. The educational programs are available for people of all ages.

Gamchusa Temple (감추사)

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Gamchusa Temple is a small temple in Yongjeong-dong in Donghae. There are only four buildings in the premises, but each building is neatly tucked away among the rocks, creating a picturesque scene. Most temples located near the sea are usually popular prayer spots, believed to be overseen by the Buddha and the Dragon King, who resides in the ocean. As such, many flock to the temple to pray asking for family well-being and prosperity. By the entrance of the temple is a five-story pagoda, which is said to have been built by a man who wanted to grant his mother's will before passing away. Due to its location by the sea, the temple offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley cliffs and the ocean.

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Cheonbuk Green Barley Field in Boryeong has become a sought-after destination after gaining popularity on social media for its picture-perfect scenery. This beautiful lush green barley field was also featured in K-dramas, making it a favorite attraction for K-drama fans and travelers alike. Visitors are advised to be careful and not step on the barley while taking pictures. The entrance ticket comes with a drink coupon, redeemable at the café within the fields.

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