DDP Architecture Tour
January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026Overview
The “DDP Architecture Tour” takes visitors through spaces at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) centered around Dream, Design, and Play. Led by a guide, the program explores the history and significance of the Dongdaemun area, where DDP is located, with a focus on the building designed by Zaha Hadid. The tour operates regularly from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed every Monday, New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year’s Day, and Chuseok Day. Tour times are 10:30 (Korean) for Session 1, 13:30 (English) for Session 2, and 15:30 (Korean) for Session 3. The meeting point is the Tour Desk on the first floor of the DDP Museum, and the tour lasts approximately 60 minutes. Participants must be at least 13 years old (middle school students); those under 13 must be accompanied by a guardian. Reservations can be made online or on-site. Online reservations are available through the DDP website (https://ddp.or.kr/?menuno=797), while on-site registration is available for remaining seats starting 10 minutes before the tour begins.
Venue
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Program
▼ DDP Architecture Tour Route (based on the regular 60-minute course) 1. Tour Desk: An introduction to the history of the DDP site and architect Zaha Hadid. 2. Eoullim Square: An explanation of the historical background, including the Archaeological Remains Exhibition Area, as well as the distinctive floating architectural structure and space frame structure. 3. Palgeori: An explanation of the connection between Dongdaemun and the surrounding area, and the ways the space is used. 4. Igansumun: An explanation of the restoration of the water gate on the Cheonggyecheon Stream during the Joseon Dynasty. 5. Hanyangdoseong / Lighting Tower: An explanation of the history and role of the fortress wall, as well as the historic lighting tower and memorial hall of Dongdaemun Stadium. 6. Exterior Panels: An explanation of the aluminum panels on the exterior of the DDP and their fabrication process. 7. Grass Hill: An explanation of succulents and eco-friendly features. 8. Design Lab: An explanation of the children's space design playground and the interior structure. 9. Sculptural Staircase: An explanation of the design and technology of the spiral sculptural staircase. 10. Design Dulle-gil: An explanation of the structure and uses of the circular walkway. 11. Miraero: An explanation of how this bridge connects the past and present. 12. Tour Desk: Tour conclusion and further guidance. [Participant Information] - Tours operate only at the designated times, and participants cannot join after a tour has begun. Failure to attend without canceling in advance may restrict future reservations. Receivers and headphones are provided at the start of the tour. The English tour is available only to foreign visitors or Korean nationals accompanying foreign visitors.
Organizer
Seoul Metropolitan Government (02-2153-0310, 0311 (12:00~13:00 점심시간)) Seoul Design Foundation
Admission fee
- General admission: KRW 10,000 - Patriots and veterans, military personnel, persons with disabilities, and youth groups: KRW 8,000 - Children: KRW 5,000
Age limit
Ages 13 and older (middle school students) ※ Visitors under 13 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Duration
- Session 1: 10:30 (Korean) - Session 2: 14:30 (English) - Session 3: 16:00 (Korean) ※ Two sessions are operated during the rooftop tour period; please refer to the website for detailed times.