Seodaemun Independence Park


Apart from the former prison, this park, dedicated to those who fought for Korean independence, also features Dongnimmun, an impressive granite archway modelled after the Arc de Triomphe. Built by the Independence Club in 1898, it stands where envoys from Chinese emperors used to be officially welcomed to Seoul.

A tribute of gold, tiger skins, green tea, ginseng, horses, swords, ramie cloth, straw mats and eunuchs would be handed over by the Koreans. This ritual symbolised Chinese suzerainty over Korea, which only ended when King Gojong declared himself an emperor in 1897.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Seodaemun Prison History Hall

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Built in 1908, this former prison is a potent symbol of Korean suffering at the hands of Japan during colonial occupation in the early 20th century…

2. Inwangsan Guksadang

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3. Gyeonghuigung

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4. Sajikdan

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5. SeMA Gyeonghuigung Museum of Art

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6. Heunghwamun

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The impressive entrance gate to Gyeonghuigung has toured around Seoul, and was moved to its present site in 1988.

7. Seoul Museum of History

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8. Agriculture Museum

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