President Moon Jae-in and first lady Kim Jung-sook raise their hands in hurrah after a march in front of the Seodaemun Prison History Hall in Seoul on March 1, 2018. The day marked the 99th anniversary of the March 1 Independence Movement Day when people started nationwide rallies to demand Korea’s independence from Japanese colonial rule. The Seodaemun Prison is where many independence fighters were jailed and martyred. (Yonhap)
One of the most unusual things to do in the Seoul area, is a trip to Dongnimmun Park and Seodaemun Prison. I say unusual simply because you wouldn’t think of a former prison as a recommended travel destination in Korea, but I recommend this park and prison simply because of the historical and psychological significance they have to the Korean people. If you have ever wondered why Koreans are so ultra-nationalistic this park and prison will give you an idea why.
When you arrive at Dongnimmun Park the first thing you will see is this large arch that towers over the park:
