Seodaemun Prison, Seoul

Seodaemun Prison, originally named Gyeongseong Prison when it opened in October 1908, was constructed by Japanese colonial authorities to incarcerate independence activists and political prisoners as early as 1910. Over time it was renamed several times-including Seodaemun Prison in 1923-before finally becoming the Seoul Detention Center after liberation.

It remained operational until 1987, when the prison was relocated and the site was preserved rather than demolished, thanks to efforts by activists and descendants of former detainees. Today, the prison is a museum and memorial situated in Seodaemun Independence Park, opened to the public in November 1998. Of nearly 100 original structures, seven key buildings have been restored-such as the Central Prison Building, Execution Building, and Women’s Prison-to educate visitors about this difficult chapter in Korean history.

A visit takes you through multiple exhibition zones. The main administrative chamber now serves as a museum hall, spanning three floors: the ground floor and first floor chronicle key stories and biographies of independence activists, while the basement reveals more unsettling elements such as the underground interrogation room and torture exhibits. You can also walk through original jail cells, visit the Execution Building, and pause at the Corpse Removal Exit-spaces that once imprisoned and oppressed hopeful patriots.

Guided tours are available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, bringing personal stories of resistance to life. Special night tours combine theatrical and audio elements for a deeper experience, while seasonal exhibitions and events mark national observances like March First Independence Movement Day.