Seoul: The War Museum, Jogyesa, and Tapgol Park Tour

The "Seoul: The War Museum, Jogyesa, and Tapgol Park Tour" promises an immersive journey through Korea’s captivating history and spiritual heritage. Visitors can explore the country’s resilience, as embodied by the War Memorial, and discover the profound significance of Jogyesa Temple and Tapgol Park. This comprehensive tour offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of Korean culture, leaving one eager to uncover more.

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Key Points

This tour showcases Seoul’s renowned historical and cultural attractions, including the War Memorial of Korea, National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, Jogyesa Temple, and Tapgol Park.
The War Memorial of Korea highlights the Korean War’s lessons and the nation’s hope for reunification, featuring a vast collection of military artifacts and historical documents.
The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History chronicles Korea’s tumultuous past century, offering interactive displays and multimedia presentations to explore the country’s transformation.
Jogyesa Temple, the chief temple of the Jogye order, provides insight into the enduring traditions of Korean Buddhism through its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Tapgol Park is a historic site of the 1919 March 1st Korean Independence Movement and has recently gained fame as a filming location for the popular series "Squid Game".

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Highlights

The tour highlights an array of renowned attractions in Seoul, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural significance.

It includes visits to the War Memorial of Korea, which focuses on lessons from the Korean War and hopes for reunification.

The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History offers insights from the late 19th century to the present.

The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History provides insights spanning from the late 19th century to the present day.

Jogyesa Temple, the chief temple of the Jogye order, embodies the community living and historical importance of Korean Buddhism.

Lastly, the tour explores Tapgol Park, the site of the 1919 March 1st Korean Independence Movement and a setting in the popular TV series "Squid Game".

Museum hopping your thing? Check out these other cultural spots we've reviewed in Seoul

The War Memorial of Korea

Established in 1994, the War Memorial of Korea serves as a poignant reminder of the nation’s tumultuous past.

The museum’s exhibitions focus on the lessons learned from the Korean War, as well as the country’s ongoing hopes for reunification.

Visitors can explore the vast collection of military artifacts, historical documents, and multimedia displays that chronicle the sacrifices and struggles of the Korean people.

The memorial stands as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the nation, inspiring reflection on the profound impact of war and the importance of peace and reconciliation.

National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

Opened on December 26, 2012, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History provides visitors with an immersive exploration of the nation’s past century.

Featuring exhibitions from the late 19th century to the present, the museum chronicles Korea’s tumultuous history, including the Japanese occupation, the Korean War, and the nation’s remarkable economic and cultural transformation.

Through interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and carefully curated artifacts, the museum offers a comprehensive understanding of Korea’s modern journey, shedding light on the country’s resilience, struggles, and triumphs.

The museum offers a comprehensive understanding of Korea’s modern journey, shedding light on the country’s resilience, struggles, and triumphs.

The museum invites guests to reflect on the past and consider Korea’s path forward.

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple stands as the chief temple of the Jogye order, representing the heart of Korean Buddhism. The temple embodies the community living and historical significance of the religion.

Visitors can admire the intricate Buddhist architecture, including the pagoda and statues that adorn the grounds. Inside, worshippers gather to participate in rituals and meditate.

The temple’s history dates back to the 14th century, though the current structures were rebuilt in the 20th century. Jogyesa serves as an important cultural and spiritual center, offering insight into the enduring traditions of Korean Buddhism.

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Tapgol Park

After exploring the spiritual heart of Korean Buddhism at Jogyesa Temple, visitors can venture to the historic Tapgol Park. This urban green space holds deep significance as the site of the 1919 March 1st Korean Independence Movement. In the park, guests can visit the Monument of the March 1st Movement and learn about the pivotal event that paved the way for Korea’s independence from Japan. The park also gained recent fame as a filming location for the hit Netflix series "Squid Game". Visitors can stroll the tranquil grounds and ponder Korea’s history and resilience.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Central Seoul |

| Significance | Site of 1919 March 1st Independence Movement |

| Attractions | Monument of the March 1st Movement |

| Pop Culture | Filming location for "Squid Game" |

There's plenty more to explore in Seoul

Afternoon Tour

For those with limited time, the afternoon tour offers a well-curated selection of Seoul’s top historical and cultural highlights.

Departing from the Koreana Hotels Office building, this half-day excursion takes visitors to the impressive War Memorial of Korea, which chronicles the nation’s turbulent past.

This half-day excursion departs from the Koreana Hotels Office building and visits the impressive War Memorial of Korea.

Next, the tour moves to the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, providing insights into the country’s modern transformation.

The itinerary also includes visits to the serene Jogyesa Temple and the historic Tapgol Park, the site of the 1919 March 1st Korean Independence Movement.

With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour packs a punch in just a few hours.

Full-day Tour

The full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Seoul’s iconic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Departing from Myeongdong Station, the tour includes visits to:

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon dynasty.
Bukchon Hanok Village, a well-preserved traditional Korean residential area.
Ginseng Museum, showcasing the history and benefits of this renowned Korean herb.
Gwangjang Market, a vibrant traditional market where visitors can sample local cuisine during lunch.

After these experiences, the tour continues to the same attractions as the afternoon tour:

The War Memorial, National Museum, Jogyesa Temple, and Tapgol Park.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the tour’s knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Dragon and Connie, who provide engaging historical insights throughout the experience.

Participants highlight the tour’s comfortable transportation and well-paced itinerary as key positives. The tour earns a stellar 4.8/5 rating based on 53 reviews.

Recommendations emphasize the quality and depth of information provided, allowing guests to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sites visited, from the War Memorial to Jogyesa Temple and Tapgol Park.

Reviewers consistently describe the tour as a valuable and enriching way to explore Seoul’s significant historical and cultural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Tour Guides Speak Multiple Languages?

Most tour guides speak multiple languages, often including English, to accommodate international travelers. The guides on this tour are praised for their knowledge and friendliness in engaging with guests from diverse backgrounds.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Needs?

The tour can accommodate guests with special needs, but it may not be suitable for wheelchair users. The tour operator encourages contacting them in advance to discuss any specific requirements or accommodations needed.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour uses comfortable air-conditioned minivans, suggesting a smaller group size. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so group size considerations may factor in accessibility needs.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled restroom breaks at appropriate times throughout the day. Guests can also request additional stops if needed during the transportation portions of the itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but these are not included. The tour provides comfortable transportation and entrance fees, but any personal refreshments are at the traveler’s own expense.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour offers a profound exploration of Korea’s complex history, from the harrowing experiences of the Korean War to the inspiring spirit of the Independence Movement. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the country’s resilience, culture, and aspirations for unity as they traverse the War Memorial, Jogyesa Temple, and Tapgol Park. This thought-provoking experience leaves a lasting impression, connecting the past to the present and inviting reflection on the nation’s remarkable journey.