Seodaemun Independence Park Historical Site

Walked out from Seodaemun Prison History Museum, where we'd a glimpse of the darker side during the Japanese colonialism in Korea. In order to gain its own independence, a lot of independence activists and pro-democracy activists were imprisoned, brutally tortured, and many were killed after suffering inside this prison. 

 

 Independence Park (서대문독립공원) outside Dongnimmun Station.

Apart from red bricks Seodaemun Prison, a range of historic monuments and buildings are also located at this historical site:

1.  Yeongeunmun (영은문)

During Joseon Dynasty, this place is known as Yeongeun. It's where Qing Dynasty envoys were welcomed by the King on their annually visit to collect tribute on behalf of the Chinese Emperor.  

   Two pillars remnants of Yeongeunmun (영은문)

in front of Dongnimmun Independence Gate.

 

2. Dongnimmun Independence Gate (독립문)

The Independence Club raised funds across the country for constructing Dongnimmun Gate. This Western-style monument was built symbolizes the ending of vassalage to China. 

Dongnimmun was built to replace Yeongeunmun Gate.

Dongnimmun Independence Gate is designated as Historical Site No. 32.

 

Dongnimmun was modeled the famous 'Arc de Triomphe' in Paris.

 

    On the top it is written ‘Dongnimmun’ in Korean with the national flag 

craved on each side. On the inner-left side there are stone stairs leading to the attic.

Dongnimmun is highlighting the entrance to Seodaemun 

Independence Park with modern squarish water features.

3.  Statue of Dr. Seo Jaepil (서재필).

You'll be greeted by statue of Korean independence activist Seo Jaepil standing at this Independence Park around Dongnimmun Gate. He's the founder of Independent Newspaper (독립신문), the first Korean newspaper in Hangul, breaking with the tradition of publishing in Chinese.

 

 Dr. Seo Jaepil holding Independent newspapers.

 

As the Founder of Independence Club (독립협회), 

he made great contributions to uplift people's spirit of 

independence to fight for Korean independence and 

support political reformation to promote civil rights.

4.  Declaration of Independence Monument

 At the opposite side of Seo Jaepil's statue is Declaration of Independence Monument.

 It would be best historical sites for educational for all the youths 

in other countries to learn about the unyielding 

patriotism that our forefathers have shown us.

5.  Independence Hall (독립관)

This Dongnipgwan Independence Hall was originally called Mohwagwan. The original building which was built in 1407 and used as Chinese envoys guesthouse.

Independence Club renovated this structure after the reform of 1894 (Gabo Gyeongjang). It's renamed to Independence Hall by Seo Jaepil and used it as association hall for their meetings and office works.

 Independence Hall was a symbol of Korea's spirit of anti-foreign 

encroachment and national independence toward the end of the Joseon period.

The present building was built by the Seoul City Government after demolished by Japanese. The construction was based on the original one-story building in a traditional Hanok style,but with the addition of an underground floor.

 Memorial tablets of Koreans who gave their lives fighting for 

March Fist Independence Movement were enshrined at the underground floor.

Seodaemun Independence Park is easily accessed from 

Dongnimmun Station (Line 3) Exit 4 or 5. 

Related Posts:

~ Seodaemun Prison History Museum

~ March 1st Movement at Tapgol Park

~ Hwaseong Haenggung Palace (화성행궁)