Korean Provisional Government Site: A Historic Landmark in Shanghai (2026 Guide)
Visit the former headquarters of the Korean Provisional Government in Shanghai. Location, hours, history, and tips for this significant historical site.
Korean Provisional Government Site: Where a Nation’s Spirit Endured
The Korean Provisional Government Site (大韩民国临时政府旧址) preserves the building where Korea’s government-in-exile operated from 1926 to 1932, during the Japanese occupation of the Korean peninsula. For visitors interested in 20th-century Asian history, this modest shikumen building offers powerful insight into Korea’s independence struggle.
📅 Last Updated: January 2026 (verified on location)
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Building Date | 1925 (shikumen style) |
| KPG Period | 1926-1932 |
| Museum Opened | 1993 |
| Visitors | Over 1 million (primarily Korean) |
Historical Background
The Korean Provisional Government
Established in Shanghai in 1919, shortly after Korea’s March 1st Independence Movement, the Korean Provisional Government (KPG) served as the legitimate government of Korea during Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945). Shanghai offered strategic advantages:
| Factor | Significance |
|---|---|
| Location | Close to Korea, outside Japanese control |
| French Concession | Relative safety from Japanese authorities |
| International Hub | Connection to global independence networks |
Why This Building Matters
This particular site served as the KPG’s headquarters during a critical period. The small rooms once hosted meetings that shaped Korea’s independence movement.
Presidential Visits
Since Korea-China diplomatic normalization in 1992, six Korean presidents have visited this site:
| President | Year |
|---|---|
| Roh Tae-woo | 1992 |
| Kim Young-sam | 1994 |
| Kim Dae-jung | 1998 |
| Roh Moo-hyun | 2003 |
| Lee Myung-bak | 2010 |
| Park Geun-hye | 2013 |
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday-Sunday | 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Last entry 11:00 AM |
| Monday | Closed | Except public holidays |
⚠️ Important: The site only opens mornings. Plan accordingly—afternoon visits are not possible.
Admission
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | ¥20 |
| Student | ¥10 (ID required) |
Getting There
By Metro (Recommended)
| Station | Lines | Exit | Walk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xintiandi | 10, 13 | Exit 6 | 5 minutes |
| Huangpi South Road | 1 | Exit 1 | 10 minutes |
Walking Route: Exit 6 → walk toward Madang Road → No. 302
What You’ll See
First Floor: Exhibition Hall
- History of the provisional government’s establishment
- Photographs and documents from the independence movement
- Personal artifacts from independence activists
Second Floor: Restored Meeting Room
- Recreated meeting space where leaders gathered
- Korean flag (Taegeukgi) and historical materials
- Independence movement documents
Third Floor: Living Quarters
- Restored living spaces of independence activists
- Period furniture and personal items
💡 Pro Tip: The museum is compact—15-30 minutes covers everything. But take time to reflect on the significance of what you’re seeing.
Visiting Tips
Best Times
| Time | Expected Wait |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM (opening) | None to 10 minutes |
| 10:00-11:00 AM | 30-60 minutes |
| Tour group season | 60+ minutes |
Recommendations
- Weekday mornings at 9 AM: Shortest waits
- Weekend 9 AM opening: Arrive early to minimize wait
Language Support
- Exhibits include Korean and English explanations
- Korean-language pamphlets available
Nearby Attractions
The location in the Xintiandi area makes it easy to combine with other sites:
| Site | Distance | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Xintiandi | 3-minute walk | 1-2 hours |
| First National Congress Site (CPC) | 5-minute walk | 30 minutes |
| Tianzifang | 15-minute walk | 1-2 hours |
Suggested Morning Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Korean Provisional Government Site (30 min) |
| 9:30 AM | Coffee in Xintiandi |
| 10:00 AM | Xintiandi walking tour |
| 11:00 AM | Walk to Tianzifang for lunch |
Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall
For those interested in Korean independence history, consider also visiting the Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall:
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lu Xun Park, Hongkou District |
| Admission | Free |
| Significance | Site of 1932 Hongkou Park bombing |
| Distance | ~30 minutes by metro from KPG site |
💡 Pro Tip: If time permits, visiting both sites provides a fuller picture of Korean independence activities in Shanghai.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there English information?
Yes, exhibits include English explanations. Korean and Chinese are also available.
Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is permitted inside. No flash, please.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though exhibits are text-heavy. It’s a valuable educational experience for children learning about history.
Is there a guided tour?
Korean tour groups often have guides. Individual visitors explore independently.
How does it compare to other Korean historical sites?
This is the most significant Korean independence site in Shanghai. The Yun Bong-gil Memorial offers a complementary perspective.
Related Guides
- Xintiandi District Guide - Steps away
- Korean History Tour - Complete heritage route
- 48-Hour Shanghai Itinerary - Full trip planning
Contact Information
- Address: 上海市黄浦区马当路302号
- Phone: +86-21-53829057
- Related Site: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism
This guide was last updated in January 2026. Operating hours may change—confirm by phone before visiting.
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