Seoul History Tour Deoksugung Palace and Seodaemun Prison

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Deoksugung Palace

  Explore the former imperial palace of Emperor Gojong and discover how its traditional halls and Western-style buildings reflect Korea’s efforts to modernize during a time of growing international pressure. After touring the palace grounds, watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony near the palace entrance at 2:00 PM.

  1 hour • Admission ticket included
• 2

  Walk along Jeongdong-gil, once Seoul’s diplomatic center and home to foreign legations, churches, and modern educational institutions. The peaceful street witnessed Korea’s efforts to engage with the outside world while protecting its sovereignty.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3

  Stop outside one of Korea’s oldest Protestant churches and hear about its connection to the March 1st Independence Movement. Learn about Yu Gwan-sun, the young independence activist who attended the church before being imprisoned at Seodaemun Prison.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Jungmyeongjeon Hall

  Visit Jungmyeongjeon Hall, where the 1905 Eulsa Treaty was imposed and Korea lost control of its foreign affairs.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Seodaemun Prison History Hall

  Travel by vehicle to Seodaemun Prison, where thousands of Korean independence activists were imprisoned during the Japanese colonial period. Explore preserved cells and exhibition spaces while hearing fact-based stories of resistance, sacrifice, and survival.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 6
  Dongnimmun Gate

  Conclude at Independence Gate, built as a declaration of Korea’s desire to become a fully sovereign nation free from foreign influence. Although it is the final stop, it brings the story back to the original dream that began Korea’s long journey toward independence.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Deoksugung is scheduled for 2:00 PM, so the tour must begin on time. Late arrival may result in missing the ceremony, and the tour cannot be delayed for late guests.
• The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony may be canceled without notice due to adverse weather, official events, or venue circumstances.
• Vehicle transportation is provided only between tour sites and for the return drop-off. The tour inside Deoksugung Palace, along Jeongdong-gil, and inside Seodaemun Prison is conducted on foot. (Depending on participant numbers and operating conditions, a taxi may be used instead.)

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