Seodaemun Independence Park

Seodaemun Independence Park is a park and important historic cultural site. During the Japanese colonial period, the park housed Seodaemun Prison. Japanese imperial authorities arrested and held political prisoners and independence activists here in brutal conditions before the liberation of Korea in 1945. Today, the park is home to a history museum and monuments to independence fighters. At the Seodaemun Prison History Hall, visitors can learn about the history, struggles, and sacrifices made by Koreans during the colonial era. Visitors to the park can see the historic Dongnimmun Gate (Independence Gate), Independence Hall, and the March 1st Declaration of Independence Monument. There are several memorials and statues of patriots, such as a statue of Seo Jaepil (a Korean independence activist) and the Patriot Martyrs Monument.