Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Basic Information

[Certified Universal Tourism Facility in 2021]

Overview

The Seodaemun Prison History Hall is a history museum related to the independence movement and democratization movement. It was originally constructed as Gyeongseong Prison during the Japanese colonial period, then became the Seoul Detention Center later. The museum was opened in 1998 after the relocation of the Seoul Detention Center to Gyeonggi-do province  in 1987. The remained facilities, such as prison cells and torture chambers remind of the brutal torture committed by the Japanese and military dictatorships.

Attractions

It is the first modern prison constructed in 1908, that imprisoned independence activists during the Japanese colonial period and pro-democracy activists during the military dictatorship after liberation. It consists of the Exhibition Hall, prison buildings, and other facilities.

The Exhibition Hall, which was the former Administration and Security Office building, displays text and video documents and relics related to the history of the museum, and has exhibition spaces to remember and commemorate the imprisoned independence activists and the pro-democracy activists. There are other facilities remained on the site, such as a leper's building, corpse removal exit, exercise yard, kitchen barrack, watchtower and the execution building.

Accessibility

The main entrance is wide and flat with no steps or raised spots, so it is convenient for anyone, including wheelchair users, to enter and exit. The road surface in the park is generally flat, but partially inclined. The information desk is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs and strollers can be rented. There is a diaper changing station in the restroom. There are also three parking facilities for persons with disabilities.

* Part of the exhibition hall doesn't have wheelchair accessibility.