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Seodaemun Prison History Hall, Seoul

4.5
#8 of 147 in Museums in Seoul
History Museum · Hidden Gem · Educational Site
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Seodaemun Prison History Hall document's the building's role as a tool of political repression, first under the Japanses colonial regime and then under numerous Korean dictatorships. Take a guided tour of the facility, which dates to 1908, to visit former cell blocks and various exhibits, such as realistic recreations of the torture methods once used within the walls there. In a separate building, you can journey through the prisoner’s experience, from torture to court appearance and finally executioner's chair. Outside, a thought-provoking memorial lists the names of those known to have died at the prison as well as those whose names are still unknown. Take a look at our Seoul trip itinerary builder app to schedule your visit to Seodaemun Prison History Hall and learn about what else to see and do during your holiday.
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Seodaemun Prison History Hall reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
387 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • This historic landmark, located at the Seodaemun (Western Gate) neighborhood, may be a bit away from the major tourist attractions. However, it is well worth a short trip to understand Korea's... 
    This historic landmark, located at the Seodaemun (Western Gate) neighborhood, may be a bit away from the major tourist attractions. However, it is well worth a short trip to understand Korea's...  more »
  • This museum is currently open for visit (despite that some other museums may have closed for covid). Popular among locals and students for school visits. A few minutes' walk from metro. Built under... 
    This museum is currently open for visit (despite that some other museums may have closed for covid). Popular among locals and students for school visits. A few minutes' walk from metro. Built under...  more »
  • This was a very sombering, unique learning experience. Everything was well marked and easy to understand and follow. 
    This was a very sombering, unique learning experience. Everything was well marked and easy to understand and follow.  more »
Google
  • It's a sad place to visit and reminds you the sacrifices that were done for South Korea to be where they are today. A change vs all the prettiness around. Large grounds, not the happiest but its good to understand a bit more on the history behind South Korea.
  • It's worth the visit. Amazing place that explains the painful but brave history of South Korea. Everything is extremely well explained and the scenes are represented in a very realistic way.
  • What I like about Korea is the way they tell the history in interesting way. I do recommend you to watch some movie reference before coming here so you can take the time machine through the tour. I also bought souvenir here, it is kinda expensive but I think it is worth it.
  • I did not regret visiting this museum. It is a monument to the courage and devotion of the Korean people to the ideas of independence and their own culture. At one point, I felt close to the history of Ukrainian independence fighters during the Soviet era. It is frightening that in different parts of our planet people were cruelly mocked only for their desire for freedom.
  • It was an incredible experience thanks to FunDayKorea.com, with a concert, actors telling the history of the place, it was really incredible day. But of course, the places is awesome and you can visit by your own, and have a great experience.

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