Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Overview

Seodaemun Prison History Hall is a historic museum that preserves the remains of a former prison used during the Japanese colonial period. It offers a poignant glimpse into Korea's struggle for independence.

The site is significant for its historical role in the Korean independence movement and its preservation as a memorial to those who fought for freedom.

Historical Cultural

Location

Address

251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Neighborhood: Seodaemun

Coordinates

37.567800, 126.973500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 09:00-18:00

tuesday 09:00-18:00

wednesday 09:00-18:00

thursday 09:00-18:00

friday 09:00-18:00

saturday 09:00-19:00

sunday 09:00-19:00

Admission

Adults

₩3,000

Children

₩2,000 (ages 7-18)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half-day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• spring festivals

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours
• special exhibitions

autumn

cool and pleasant

• autumn foliage
• cool weather

winter

cold, occasional snow

• holiday lights
• winter exhibitions

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecasts

What to Bring

essential

ID printed or digital tickets comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket in spring/autumn, umbrella in summer warm clothing in winter

not allowed

large bags or backpacks professional photography equipment without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low to moderate (some walking and stairs)

• uneven surfaces in some areas
• indoor exhibits may be crowded

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash (KRW), credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Typical Costs

entry ₩3,000 (adults), ₩2,000 (youth), free for children under 7

parking ₩2,000 for 1 hour

food ₩5,000-₩15,000 at on-site cafe

souvenirs ₩3,000-₩20,000

Dress Code

casual, comfortable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, closed-toe shoes recommended for indoor exhibits, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for peak season, same-day for off-season
• official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 24 hours in advance for full refund
• available for online ticket holders

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Seodaemun Prison History Hall Official App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide with historical commentary, Ticket booking and discounts, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Main courtyard

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafeteria

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Distance: 55 km

Travel Time: 1 hour to 1.5 hours

taxi

₩70,000-₩90,000 1 hour to 1.5 hours (depending on traffic)

public_transport

₩10,000-₩15,000 1.5 hours to 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 3 km from Gwanghwamun

metro

₩1,350 10-15 minutes

bus

₩1,200 15-20 minutes

taxi

₩5,000-₩7,000 5-10 minutes (depending on traffic)

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a poignant reminder of our history and the struggle for independence, with a well-preserved and respectful presentation

Historical Significance: This prison was used during the Japanese colonial period to detain Korean independence activists. It serves as a memorial to their sacrifices.

Insider Tips

Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience
The best local food stalls are just a short walk from the main entrance
Entry is often free or discounted for special events

Local Recommendations

• Try Korean street food from vendors near the entrance
• Visit the nearby Seodaemun Market for local souvenirs
• Ask for recommendations from the friendly staff at the information desk

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)

thank_you 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)

where_is 어디에 있나요? (Eodie innayo?)

how_much 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)

beautiful 아름다워요 (Areumdawoyo)

ticket 티켓 (Tikeot)

Guide Languages: Korean, English, Japanese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance gate

Best Time: Early morning with soft light

Tips: Capture the gate from a low angle for dramatic effect

Result: Iconic historical architecture

#SeodaemunPrison #SeoulHistory #KoreaTravel

Courtyard with cherry blossoms (spring)

Best Time: Golden hour in the afternoon

Tips: Use the blossoms to frame the historic buildings

Result: Scenic blend of nature and history

#SpringInSeoul #CherryBlossoms #HistoricalKorea

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, courtyard, designated photo spots

prohibited areas indoor exhibits, restricted historical buildings

flash photography not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography permit required for professional shoots

drone policy strictly prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted; only allowed for professional photographers with permit

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas only

Nearby Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 minutes

Type: Historical Palace

Bukchon Hanok Village

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 minutes

Type: Traditional Village

Seoul Tower (Namsan Seoul Tower)

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 40 minutes (uphill)

Type: Observation Tower

Reviews

4.5

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online to skip the line"
"Visit early for fewer crowds"
"Combine with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace"

Contact Information

+82-2-315-8693

spinfo@spmuseum.go.kr

www.sp museum.go.kr

Social Media

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