Published Date : May 28, 2021 / Edited Date : Aug 30, 2023
The buds of early spring have given way to matured green leaves, hinting at summer’s approach. June is an exciting month as people are planning their summer vacations and marking upcoming events on their calendars. However, while the month of June is indeed a thrilling one, it is also a very important month as it is the month we commemorate war veterans here in Korea. National Veterans Day, the start of the Korean War on June 25, and the Second Battle of Yeonpyeong are among the many days commemorated in June. June is deeply historical and meaningful for the people of South Korea. Korea is what it is today thanks to the dedication and perseverance of many who selflessly sacrificed themselves for their country. Here are some places to check out in order to better learn about and honor those who fought hard defending the country.
The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
Located just southeast of Gwanghwamun Gate is the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, where you can explore Korea’s past and present. Known as the first of its kind in Korea, the museum has eight floors to explore, and introduces its visitors to the key events of the modern and contemporary history of Korea since it first opened at the end of the 19th century. “Muunjanggu Taegeukgi,” which contains written farewell wishes that pray for the soldiers participating in the Korean War, and the first-year Korean textbook, “Badugi wa Cheolsu,” which was compiled for the first time since the establishment of the Korean government. The history of Korea is exhibited along with valuable primary sources that contain well-preserved information. For example, in the museum's history exhibit section, the formal establishment of the Korean government and the events after the Korean War are displayed along with documents from the actual events.At the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, visitors can also enjoy cultural and art-related programs. These types of programs are regularly hosted, making history more approachable and relatable. After exploring all of the historical events displayed in the museum, and learning about the countless brave souls, it is recommended to visit the rooftop garden on the eighth floor of the museum. The beautiful scenery of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Gate, where history still lives on, reminds visitors of the unforgettable events throughout Korea’s past.
- Make sure to bring your ID card or passport on your visit - Admission is required for entry into the permanent exhibition hall - Ticket reservation is limited to 4 tickets per person per day - Entry is restricted to 100 people per hour
The War Memorial of Korea in Yongsan-dong is known to be the only military-related museum in Korea that covers all the wars the country has experienced dating back 5,000 years to the prehistoric period. In the War History Hall of the War Memorial complex, visitors can learn all about various major wars in Korea’s history. There is a 4D exhibition in the Korean War Hall, organized as different interactive exhibits so that visitors can more readily and comprehensively understand the cause of the outbreak of the Korean War while learning about the course of the war. Not only is there a designated children’s area, but there is also an outdoor exhibition hall where the main weapons, aircrafts, and missiles used during the war are on display. Here, both kids and adults can explore the physical history of the war firsthand. The outdoor exhibition hall of the War Memorial is also a must-see during your visit! The memorial hall houses the monument of Gwanggaeto the Great and the Twin Clock Tower, both monumental parts of Korean history. Explore this expansive space, reflecting on the heroes of the Korean War and the important history that surrounds it.
Learning activities in the exhibition hall are currently restricted due to COVID-19
The Seoul National Cemetery, where visitors can take time to remember the Korean veterans of the Korean War, is a sacred space that enshrines the spirit of patriotism and selfless sacrifice for the sake of one’s country. When visitors arrive at the Seoul Memorial Hall, they will be met by the Memorial Tower, which commemorates the loyalty of the veterans and their everlasting spirit. Inside, soldiers whose bodies were not found, or whose names were unknown during the Korean War, are enshrined and honored. In addition, the tombs of veterans of the Korean War, as well as those who worked hard for the development of Korea, can be found here. It is recommended to take one of the comprehensive guides to the Seoul National Cemetery located at the front door of the Memorial Hall, and refer to it throughout the visit in order to have the most informative and meaningful experience. Additionally, visitors can find the Weeping Cherry Blossom Road, the Ginkgo Tree Trail, and the Fringetree Trail on the guide, known to be especially beautiful in the summer. Set some time aside this month to visit the Seoul National Cemetery and remember the patriots of Korea while enjoying the magnificent nature of the surrounding area.
본 코스는 보행약자(거동이 불편한 고령자, 장애인, 유모차 이용자 등)를 위한 코스입니다.
보호자를 동반하지 않을 시 이용이 불가능 합니다.※ 보행약자 1명당 보호자 최소 1인 이상 동반 ※ 전동보장구(전동휠체어, 전동스쿠터 등) 사용자의 경우 보호자 1인당 보행약자 최대 4인까지 동반 가능
희망하시는 날짜 및 코스에 활동가능한 해설사가 없는 경우 예약은 취소될 수 있습니다.
예약확인을 위해 도보관광 사무국(02-6925-0777)에서 확인 연락이 진행됩니다.(최소 5일~한달 전)3회 이상 전화통화가 이뤄지지 않을 시 예약이 취소될 수 있습니다.
해설 진행 시 발생하는 안전사고에 대해서 도보관광 사무국과 서울문화관광해설사는 책임을 지지 않습니다.
미세먼지 비상저감조치 발령 및 기타 기상악화(폭염, 태풍, 폭우 등)로 인해 도보관광 운영이 어려운 경우 모든 예약은 일괄 취소됩니다. (관광일 전날 기준)
Reservations must be made at least three days prior to the tour date.
Additional reservations, one or two days before the tour starts, are only allowed for the tour that is already fixed.
In the case of group tour, more than 10people, please contact us by e-mail.
Reservations for the following month are available from the 15th of the current month.
Please refrain from participating in any tour programs should you be experiencing any symptoms, including fever, coughing, congestion, muscle pain, stuffy nose, and/or sore throat.
Reservations for tourists 14 years & under without an accompanying adult or guardian shall be canceled on site.
All reservations will be canceled in the event of a weather warning being issued. (e.g. heatwave, typhoon, heavy rain, fine dust, etc.) (Cancellation will be processed immediately upon implementation)
※ Please always check the weather warning on the day of the reservation on the site below.
(https://www.accuweather.com/en/kr/seoul/226081/weather-forecast/226081)
The Seoul Guided Walking Tour administration office and tour guide affiliates are not responsible for any accidents that happen to occur during the tour program.
Reservation shall be made at least 1 week before the tour day.
The course is for tourists with mobility problems (Senior, people with disability, stroller user).
You may not use the course without an assistant (or companion) ※ At least one assistant shall accompany a tourist with mobility problem ※ In case of electric assisting device users (electric wheelchair, electric scooter users), one assistant may accompany up to 4 tourists with mobility problem
Reservation may be canceled when a guide is unavailable on the desired date and course.
Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office (02-6925-0777) will contact you to confirm reservation. (At least 5 days~1 month before tour day) Reservation may be canceled when Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office cannot reach you for more than 3 times.
Seoul Guided Walking Tour Office and Seoul culture and tourism guide are not liable for the safety accidents during the Seoul Guided Walking Tour.
All reservations will be canceled in the event of a weather warning being issued. (e.g. heatwave, typhoon, heavy rain, fine dust, etc.) (Cancellation will be processed immediately upon implementation)
※ Please always check the weather warning on the day of the reservation on the site below.
(https://www.accuweather.com/en/kr/seoul/226081/weather-forecast/226081)