Seoul History Tour Deoksugung Palace and Seodaemun Prison

At a glance

Seoul History Tour Deoksugung Palace and Seodaemun Prison is a 3h 30m small-group experience in Seoul, South Korea, operated by TRIPPER KOREA. Travellers rate it 4.9 out of 5 across 12 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $55 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: All entrance fees, English-speaking Professional guide, Transportation cost.

Quick facts

Duration

3h 30m

Group

Small group, up to 13 travellers

Languages

English

Pickup

Meet at the start point

Confirmation

Instant confirmation

Ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

Travellers

1–15 per booking

Ages

Adult 12–99

Cancellation

Free cancellation (see policy)

Options & availability

• Deoksugung & Seodaemun Prison

  from $55

  Duration: 4 hours Van

  Days:

  Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun

  Start times:

  12:50

  Check availability →

Times and prices come from the operator’s live schedule and are confirmed when you book.

Overview

Itinerary

1. Stop 1 · 1h

   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.

2. Stop 2 · 15m

   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.

3. Stop 3 · 15m

   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.

4. Stop 4 · 15m

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

5. Stop 5 · 1h 30m

   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.

6. Stop 6 · 10m

   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.

Meeting point

Traveller ratings

Good to know

• 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.)
• The route includes stairs and uneven surfaces and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
• The tour operates in rain or snow. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Please note that Seodaemun Prison includes sensitive exhibits related to imprisonment, torture, colonial oppression, and death.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Frequently asked questions