A Walk Through History: Exploring the Seoul City Wall Museum at Dongdaemun

If you are walking through Heunginjimun Park in Dongdaemun, you will naturally come across a building that holds the stories of Seoul’s 600-year-old boundary: the Seoul City Wall Museum (Hanyangdoseong Museum).

Located just a 5-minute walk from Dongdaemun Station (Subway Lines 1 & 4), this museum is a hidden gem that connects the beauty of the park with deep historical insights.

Why You Should Visit

The museum is neat, modern, and best of all, admission is free. It’s designed to be accessible for everyone, from children to the elderly. With wheelchair-accessible elevators, nursing rooms, and stroller access, it’s a stress-free destination for families.

The permanent exhibition is divided into three sections:

• Seoul, Hanyangdoseong: Discover the meaning of the wall and see the city’s transformation through large-scale models and media art. The media art showcasing the wall through the four seasons is particularly impressive.

• Construction & Management: Dive into the details of how the wall was built during the Joseon Dynasty. You can see the names of the workers inscribed on the stones and learn about the structure of the gates.

• Damage & Restoration: This section covers the modern history of the wall—its demolition during the Japanese colonial period, destruction due to urban development, and the restoration efforts led by citizens and researchers.

More Than Just Exhibits

The museum isn't just about looking at artifacts. They offer programs for children and regular walking tours for adults led by professional guides, allowing you to walk the actual fortress path while listening to history.

It is an "open museum" where research and culture blend, hosting annual events like the Hanyangdoseong Culture Festival. If you want to understand how Seoul became the city it is today, this is a must-visit spot.

Visitor Information

• Location: 283 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

• Transport: Subway Lines 1 & 4, Dongdaemun Station, Exit 1 (317m walk)

• Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 09:00 – 18:00

• Closed: Mondays, January 1st

• Admission: Free

• Website: Seoul City Wall Museum

Reference: Seoul Newsletter