Bosingak

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  • Transport
    underground rail: Line 1 to Jonggak, Exit 4

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Situated in Jongno (Bell St), Seoul's main street during the Joseon period, this pavilion houses a modern version of the city bell, which was originally forged in 1468. The bell is rung only at New Year, when crowds gather here to celebrate.

In Joseon times, the great bell was struck 28 times every night at to ask the heavens for a peaceful night and to signal the closure of the gates and the start of the nightly curfew, which was enforced by club-wielding watchmen. It was struck 33 times for the 33 Buddhist heavens at , which signalled the start of the new day when the gates were reopened. It also sounded when fire broke out.