≡-Seoul, South Korea: Step Back in Time with the Seodaemun Prison History Hall Walking Tour, Honoring 80 Years of Liberation – Viral of Today

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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Seoul, South Korea: Step Back in Time with the Seodaemun Prison History Hall Walking Tour, Honoring 80 Years of Liberation Wednesday, July 30, 2025On the 30th of July, the Seoul city government, in partnership with the Seoul Tourism Foundation, announced a special event designed to offer a deeper connection to modern and contemporary Korean history. From August 5 onwards, participants can join the ‘Seoul Walking Tour at Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course’, a program that invites visitors to explore the historical significance of the Seodaemun Prison and its role in the independence movement. This year marks the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation, and this tour aims to reflect on the struggles, sacrifices, and hopes of those who fought for the country’s freedom during the Japanese occupation period.A Step Back in Time: Seoul Walking ToursSeoul’s Walking Tour program is more than just a sightseeing activity; it’s an immersive experience that provides participants with an insightful glimpse into the hidden stories of Seoul’s history, culture, and natural beauty. The tours take visitors through iconic locations like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jeongdong, and Naksan Fortress, offering detailed explanations of the historical and cultural significance of these places by professional cultural tourism interpreters.In addition to showcasing the visual splendor of these sites, the program emphasizes the lesser-known narratives that have shaped Seoul’s identity, enriching the participants’ understanding of the city’s heritage. These tours are not just about visiting landmarks; they are a celebration of the stories that unfold behind them, making the past come alive with every step.The Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course: A Journey of ReflectionThe ‘Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course’ is a unique part of the Seoul Walking Tour series. This particular course starts at Independence Gate and progresses toward the Seodaemun Prison History Hall. The tour is designed to trace the footsteps of Korea’s independence activists, offering a glimpse into the trials they faced during the Japanese colonial period. As participants walk the same paths once trod by freedom fighters, they can reflect on the harsh realities of occupation and the relentless determination of those who fought for Korea’s independence.This course, lasting approximately two hours, allows visitors to deeply engage with the historical events that unfolded at Seodaemun Prison. Once a symbol of colonial oppression, Seodaemun Prison now stands as a testament to the courage of those who resisted foreign rule. The course aims to illuminate the pain and hope that characterized this tumultuous chapter in Korean history, providing a poignant opportunity for visitors to understand the immense sacrifices made in the name of independence.Insightful Guidance: Cultural Tourism InterpretersA key feature of the walking tour is the guidance provided by expert cultural tourism interpreters. These interpreters are not only knowledgeable about the sites but are skilled in conveying the complex stories embedded in the landmarks. Through their expertise, visitors can better appreciate the historical significance of each location, and gain a more profound understanding of the struggles faced by past generations.The course offers services in seven different languages in addition to Korean, ensuring that a diverse range of visitors can fully engage with the historical narratives shared throughout the tour. The multilingual support further ensures that the program is accessible to international tourists, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s history, and making it easier for everyone to connect with Korea’s independence story.Free and Accessible to AllOne of the most compelling aspects of the Seoul Walking Tour at Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course is its accessibility. Starting from the 1st of August, reservations for the course can be made via the official website of the Seoul Tourism Foundation. The best part is that the course is entirely free of charge, allowing people from all walks of life to experience this historical journey without financial barriers.By providing free access to this course, the Seoul government and the Seoul Tourism Foundation aim to ensure that the lessons of history are passed down to future generations. The goal is not only to promote tourism but also to foster a deeper understanding of Korea’s past, the struggles for independence, and the ongoing need to uphold the values of freedom and justice.A Time for Reflection: Understanding the Past and Its Relevance TodayGu Jong-won, the director of the Seoul City Tourism and Sports Bureau, shared his perspective on the significance of the Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course. He emphasized that this course would serve as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of the daily lives that independence activists fought to protect. He pointed out that those who endured hardships during the colonial era were not merely fighting for their own survival but were dedicated to ensuring the future of the nation and the well-being of its people.The tour, therefore, is not only a historical reflection but also a call to examine the values that Korea’s independence movement championed. In the face of modern challenges, the course invites participants to consider how those values—freedom, equality, and justice—continue to resonate in today’s society. It’s an invitation to reflect on the relevance of those principles in the present day, as well as a reminder of the sacrifices that were made to secure the freedoms that are often taken for granted.Seodaemun Prison History Hall: A Site of Resistance and LiberationSeodaemun Prison holds a central place in Korea’s struggle for independence. Established during the Japanese colonial period, the prison was initially used to house political prisoners, many of whom were part of the independence movement. The prison became notorious for the torture and suffering endured by its inmates, who were subjected to brutal interrogations and harsh conditions.Today, Seodaemun Prison has been transformed into the Seodaemun Prison History Hall, a museum that chronicles the history of the prison and the lives of those who were imprisoned there for their resistance against colonial rule. The museum houses exhibits that highlight the suffering and resilience of Korea’s independence fighters, showcasing personal artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the fight for freedom.By walking through the Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course, visitors not only experience the site’s historical significance but are also given the opportunity to connect emotionally with the lives of those who endured unimaginable hardships in their quest for liberation. It serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve freedom.Seodaemun Prison and Its Role in Modern TourismWhile the Seodaemun Prison History Hall is undoubtedly a site of historical importance, it is also becoming increasingly significant in the context of modern tourism in Seoul. With its deep historical roots, the prison provides an educational experience that is valuable to both domestic and international tourists. As part of the larger Seoul Walking Tour program, the Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course offers a unique perspective on Korean history, contributing to the city’s rich tourism offerings.The integration of cultural tourism interpreters into the tour enhances the experience, ensuring that visitors not only see the sights but also gain a deeper understanding of the historical events that transpired. The tour offers an engaging, informative, and emotionally moving experience, making it an essential part of any visitor’s itinerary in Seoul.A Call to Action: Join the Seoul Walking TourAs the Seoul Walking Tour at Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course prepares to launch on August 5, the city of Seoul is inviting everyone to take part in this enriching historical experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student of modern Korean culture, or simply someone interested in learning more about the country’s past, this course promises to be an unforgettable journey.Reservations are now open, and the course is free of charge, making it accessible to a wide range of participants. It’s an opportunity to not only learn about Korea’s independence movement but also to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the freedom enjoyed by the nation today. The course will provide an invaluable opportunity for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Seoul’s history, its role in Korea’s independence struggle, and the ongoing relevance of the values that were fought for.Honoring the Past, Shaping the FutureIn conclusion, the Seoul Walking Tour at Seodaemun Prison History Hall Course is more than just a walk through history; it’s a chance to honor the sacrifices of Korea’s independence activists and reflect on the values that shaped the nation’s path to freedom. This historical journey through one of Seoul’s most significant sites serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of protecting the freedoms that we enjoy today.As Seoul marks the 80th anniversary of Liberation, this course offers an opportunity for all to reflect on the past while looking toward a future built on the same principles of freedom, justice, and equality that defined the struggle for independence. Visitors are encouraged to take part in this free, enriching experience, and to reflect on the significance of Korea’s history in shaping the country and the world today.

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