• Walk through the dark and defining chapters of Korea’s modern history on a guided journey through central Seoul.
  
  Meet your licensed English-speaking guide at **City Hall Station** and begin at Deoksugung Palace. Following the story in a connected historical sequence, you will explore the rise of the Korean Empire, the loss of national sovereignty, the independence movement, and life under Japanese colonial rule.
  
  # Deoksugung Palace
  
  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.
  
  # Jeongdong-gil
  
  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.
  
  # Jeongdong First Methodist Church
  
  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.
  
  # Jungmyeongjeon Hall
  
  Visit Jungmyeongjeon Hall, where the 1905 Eulsa Treaty was imposed and Korea lost control of its foreign affairs.
  
  # Seodaemun Prison History Hall
  
  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.
  
  # Independence Gate
  
  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.
  
  The journey concludes at Independence Gate, where Korea’s long struggle for sovereignty comes full circle. After taking in the final story of the tour, relax on the return ride to City Hall Station, carrying with you a deeper understanding of the history that shaped modern Korea.

• Look for a guide holding a TRIPPER’ sign in front of a 'City Hall Station Exit 2'
• Meeting Time is '12:50'

Know before you go

• 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.