Overview
Meet your host
Itinerary
Blood & Tears: Korea Independence & Resistance Dark History Tour
5 (0)
Blood & Tears: Korea Independence & Resistance Dark History Tour
5 (0)
Activity Duration (7 hours)
Extreme
Hosted in English
No refund if cancelled
Reserve now & pay later, Secure your spot while staying flexible.
What you'll do
This tour will take you on a journey through the darkest periods of Korea's independence and resistance movements. You will visit the sites where the Korean people fought against Japanese colonial rule, and where they suffered greatly. This tour is not for the faint of heart, as it will take you through some of the most difficult and painful periods in Korean history.
Tour Highlight
Our history tour offers two compelling package options, each uncovering a different chapter of Korea's hard-fought freedom. Choose one or experience both for a fuller understanding of Korea's spirit and history.
Package 1: Then: Fight for Independence
Step back to Korea's colonial era at Seodaemun Prison History Hall, where freedom fighters endured brutal torture and imprisonment. Visit Dongnimmun Arch, a symbol of lost sovereignty, then explore Dilkusha, home to an American journalist who exposed Japan's atrocities. End at Tapgol Park, the birthplace of the March 1st Movement.
Package 2: Now: Road to Democracy
Explore Korea's road to democracy at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History to understand postwar struggles, then wander Tongin Traditional Market for lunch. Then, visit Namsan KCIA headquarters and the Korea Democracy Foundation, sites of political oppression, surveillance and the brave fight for democracy.
What is included?
- Public Transportation Fees during the tour
- English Speaking Guide
- Admission Fees
- Entry/Admission Seodaemun Prison History Hall
What is not included?
- Meals
- Travelers Insurance
- Other Personal Expenses
Additional Information
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travelers can participate
- Itinerary is subjected to traffic & weather condition.
- This tour involves traveling by public transportation, so bringing strollers or wheelchairs may be inconvenient.
- You may need to remove your shoes when visiting Dilkusha to help preserve the historic residence. Slippers will be provided onsite.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
Meet your host
Golden Adventure Co.
Verified host
Host since 2023
Itinerary
No meal included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.
Here is the starting point
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
1
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Stop: 95 minutes
【Then: Fight for Independence Tour】 Step into the brutal past of Korea’s independence struggle. This former prison held, tortured, and executed countless freedom fighters under Japanese rule. Walk through dark cells, witness torture chambers, and feel the pain of those who sacrificed everything for Korea’s freedom.Read moreMore about Seodaemun Prison History Hall
2
Dongnimmun Gate
Stop: 10 minutes
【Then: Fight for Independence Tour】 A symbol of lost sovereignty and resilience. Built to celebrate Korea’s independence, it later stood as a silent witness to Japanese colonization. Once a gateway to freedom, now a solemn reminder of the nation's struggle to reclaim its identity.Read moreMore about Dongnimmun Gate
3
Dilkusha (Albert W. Taylor House)
Stop: 30 minutes
4
Tapgol Park
Stop: 30 minutes
5
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Stop: 60 minutes
【Now: Road to Democracy Tour】 Explore Korea’s dramatic transformation from colonization to democracy. This museum provides key insight into the country’s post-war recovery, rapid industrial growth, and the political struggles that followed. Through powerful exhibits and archival footage, discover the events and movements that shaped modern Korea—and the citizens who demanded change.Read moreMore about National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
6
Tongin Market
Stop: 60 minutes
【Now: Road to Democracy Tour】 Walk the vibrant alleys of Tongin Market, once a gathering place for everyday people enduring extraordinary times, and enjoy a traditional lunch amid echoes of the past with Yeopjeong (brass coins).Read moreMore about Tongin Market
7
Namsan
Stop: 60 minutes
【Now: Road to Democracy Tour】 This peaceful hill hides a dark past. Once home to the KCIA, it was where dissidents were interrogated and tortured during military rule. Today, it serves as a chilling reminder of the cost many paid for speaking out—and the bravery it took to do so.Read moreMore about Namsan
8
Korea Democracy Foundation
Stop: 40 minutes
This concludes the tour.
You’re free to explore at your own pace from here.
Epic Adventures Across the Globe
Popular Experiences
