4 Recommended Places in Seoul For Korean History Lovers

It was the Joseon Dynasty period (1392-1910) that Seoul has become the capital of the nation. Back then, Seoul was called Hanyang.

Having been the center of a country for hundreds of years, Seoul has become a living history of Korea.

There are a lot of relics, historical sites, and museums in Seoul, and today, we recommend the 4 places that you might want to add on your itinerary if you’re a history lover!

1. Seodaemun Prison History Hall

A former prison that was used during the Japanese colonial period to imprison Korean independence activists. Numbers of Koreans were tortured and killed in this prison.

This place won’t show how trendy or fancy Korea has become over the years, but it will show the dark, but important side of Korean history. 7 of the 15 buildings are preserved for their historical significance.

☑️ 251, Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

☑️ Online reservation recommended prior to your visit

☑️ Operating hours

9:30 – 18:00 for March – October

9:30 – 17:00 for November – February

☑️ Closed on Mondays

2. Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs

The graves of King Seongjong (9th king of the Joseon Dynasty) and Queen Jeonghyeon are buried. It’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s located in the center of Gangnam area, in contrast with most royal tombs located in the suburbs.

Located in the center of Gangnam area, this historical site provides a peaceful, calm vibe that you might’ve wanted. It takes about an hour to walk around the place.

☑️ 1, Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

☑️ Operating hours

6:00 – 18:00 for February

6:00 – 21:00 for March – October

6:30 – 17:30 for November – February

☑️ Closed on Mondays

3. Jongmyo Shrine

A royal shrine dedicated to the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s known to be the oldest royal Confucian shrine preserved and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1995.

☑️ 157, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

☑️ Online reservation recommended prior to your visit

☑️ Operating hours

[Guided Tours] Weekdays

(Highly recommend you to have a guided tour!)

English)10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00

Japanese) 09:00, 09:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:40, 16:40

Chinese) 11:00, 13:00, 15:00

[General Viewing] Only Saturdays

9:00 – 18:00 for February – May, September – October

9:00 – 18:30 for June – August

9:00 -17:30 November – January

☑️ Closed on Tuesdays

4. The War Memorial of Korea

Although the Korean War ended in a truce, Korea is technically at war to be exact. The War Memorial of Korea exhibits and preserves materials related to the Korean War.

This place is bigger and more educational than expected. It houses about 33,000 artifacts and has six indoor halls and outdoor exhibition showcases. 

☑️ 29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

☑️ Operating hours

09:30-18:00

☑️ Closed on Mondays