Once a symbol of pain, now a place of remembrance.

Behind the gates of Seodaemun Prison lies one of Korea’s most powerful and painful stories.

If you’re curious about how Korea fought for its freedom and democracy, this former prison is more than just a museum — it’s a living record of resistance, sacrifice, and survival. Once used to detain and silence independence activists and political dissidents, Seodaemun Prison now stands as a powerful symbol of the country’s long journey toward justice.

If you want to feel Korea’s past not just learn about it, Seodaemun Prison will leave an impression long after you leave.

1. Why Has Seodaemun Prison Become a Historic Landmark?

At first glance, Seodaemun Prison might look like just another old building tucked into the city — but step inside, and you’ll find yourself face to face with some of Korea’s most painful and powerful history.

Seodaemun Prison was established in 1908 during the Japanese colonial period and was, at that time, the largest prison facility in East Asia. 

But more than its size, it’s the stories that unfolded here that give the place its weight: this was where countless Korean independence activists were imprisoned, tortured, and executed for daring to resist colonial rule.

It primarily served as a place for detaining, torturing, and executing Korean independence activists.

Even after Korea regained its independence, Seodaemun Prison continued to be used as a site of political oppression under authoritarian regimes rule as late asuntil 1987.

Unlike ordinary prisons, Seodaemun Prison holds the painful memories and struggles of Korea’s modern history. To preserve its historical significance, the site underwent major restoration in the 1990s and was reopened as a museum.

Today, it stands not just as a historical landmark, but as a solemn reminder of Korea's fight for freedom and democracy.

Where is Seodaemun Prison Located?

✅ Google Map

Seodaemun Prison is located near Dongnimmun (Independence Gate) Station on Seoul Subway Line 3 --, just a few stops from popular areas like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Hongdae.

The prison sits right next to Independence Park, where you can also see the famous Independence Gate (Dongnimmun) — a historic monument that perfectly complements the museum visit.

-Tip: Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum.

2.Step into Korean History at Seodaemun Prison

 ☑️Before the Prison: Korea’s Struggle for Survival in a Changing Asia

In the late 19th century, Korea (then known as Joseon) found itself isolated amid rising tensions between regional powers in East Asiat. Afte the First Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905), Japan emerged as the dominant force in East Asia.

In 1876, Korea signed its first modern treaty—the Treaty of Ganghwa—with Japan under unfavorable terms.

With no prior experience in diplomacy, Korea had little choice but to accept Japan’s demands. Japan, having strengthened its influence after winning two major wars, eventually stripped Korea of its sovereignty and forcibly annexed the country in 1910. 

Seodaemun Prison stands today as a stark reminder of this painful era in Korea’s history.

☑️ Behind Bars for Freedom: Korea’s Independence Movement

The Japanese occupation may have taken Korea’s sovereignty, but it also sparked something powerful in return: a long tradition of peaceful resistance.

You may have heard of Korea’s Candlelight Protests. About six years ago, millions gathered peacefully in Gwanghwamun Square to demand the impeachment of the president. This tradition of peaceful resistance can be traced back to the colonial period.

On March 1, 1919, Koreans gathered in Insadong and across the country, shouting "Long live Korean independence!" and launching the March First Movement. 

This powerful movement spread not only across Korea but also among Korean communities abroad. The spirit of resistance continued through various efforts until Korea finally achieved liberation in 1945 after Japan’s defeat in World War II.

At Seodaemun Prison, you can encounter the detailed stories of this long journey toward independence.

☑️ From Dictatorship to Democracy

Liberation from Japanese rule in 1945 didn’t mean freedom for all. In the decades that followed, Korea faced new internal struggles — this time under military-led governments that often silenced dissent.

Seodaemun Prison continued to serve as a place where political prisoners were held during Korea’s periods of authoritarian rule.

After decades under military regimes, the Korean people achieved a major breakthrough during the June Democratic Uprising of 1987, securing direct presidential elections and beginning the era of true civilian government.

Seodaemun Prison silently witnessed these crucial turning points in Korea’s modern journey toward democracy. Today, it serves as a reminder that Korea’s fight for democracy was neither quick nor easy — but it was undeniably powerful.

3. What Remains: The Prison, the Pain, and the People

To truly understand the weight of history here, you have to go beyond the timelines and step into the spaces where it happened.

☑️ The Torture Chamber: Brutality Beneath the Surface

The first basement floor of Seodaemun Prison was used as a torture chamber. 

While prisoners are typically sent to jail following a formal legal process, many individuals at that time were dragged directly to the prison, tortured, and imprisoned within just 24 hours—without trial. 

Today, the traces of that brutality remain. Visitors can walk through the narrow rooms where interrogations took place and hear firsthand testimonies from survivors who endured unimaginable pain within these very walls.

☑️Inside the Cells: Daily Life Behind Bars

Despite the oppression, the human spirit endured.

Seodaemun Prison now preserves the original prison cells and personal belongings of the inmates. 

When it first opened in 1908, the facility was designed to hold about 500 inmates. However, following the March First Movement in 1919, the number of prisoners swelled to over 3,000. Before Korea’s liberation, nearly 40,000 independence activists passed through these prison walls. 

Many official records were destroyed. But the few surviving artifacts offer a moving glimpse into the countless untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience— stories not always found in history books, but still alive in the preserved corners of this prison.

4. Why We Must Remember

When you visit Seodaemun Prison, you'll often see students and tourists eager to learn about the history of Korea—a small yet resilient nation.

But why is it important to remember places like this?

By facing this painful past, we honor the struggles of those who fought for freedom and human rights. Seodaemun Prison reminds us that the pursuit of justice and liberty is never easy and must never be forgotten.

It challenges us to reflect on our shared human history and the ongoing fight for dignity and freedom around the world.

If you want to experience that story firsthand and reflect on the spirit that shaped modern Korea, Seodaemun Prison is where you begin.

Book Your Seodaemun Prison Tour Now!
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Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through one of Seoul’s most meaningful historical landmarks.
Experience Korea’s fight for freedom and democracy— right where it happened.

✅(English-speaking guides available.)

Also available on Airbnb ExperiencesYou can also book via Airbnb!

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Recommended Places Near Seodaemun Prison (By Our Guide)
➡️Explore Nearby Spots

Planning to visit Seodaemun Prison? Make the most of your time in the area.

Here are a few meaningful stops within walking distance to deepen your journey into Korea’s history and culture.