Architecture sights in South Korea
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A
Namdaemun
The Great South Gate of Seoul fortress was originally constructed in 1398, rebuilt in 1447 and has often been renovated since then. Designated as National Treasure No 1, the gate was an impressive sight, especially when floodlit at night, and is a reminder of the once-mighty Joseon dynasty. The soldiers in Joseon uniforms that guard the gate ( 10:00 - 16:00 Wed-Mon) march around every 30 minutes, but are there for photographic rather than defence purposes. The famous day-and-night Namdaemun market that starts at the gate is also centuries old.
reviewed
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B
Cheongwadae
The Blue House is Korea’s answer to America’s White House. Back in 1968 a squad of 31 North Korean commandos was caught just 500m from the Blue House on a mission to assassinate President Park Chung-hee. The threat from the North has diminished but security remains tight. To see Cheongwadae, visitors must join a free 80-minute tour, which does not venture inside any important buildings – it only visits the palatial grounds and Chilgung, small locked shrines that contain the spirit tablets of seven royal concubines whose sons became kings during the Joseon dynasty. Tours (Korean language only, passports required) run from Tuesday to Saturday at 10am, 11am, 2pm and 3pm. You…
reviewed
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C
Bosingak
Situated in Jongno (Bell St), Seoul’s main street during the Joseon period, this pavilion houses a modern copy of the city bell – the original, forged in 1468, is in the garden of the National Museum of Korea. 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 10pm 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 4am, which signalled the start of the new day when the gates were reopened. It also sounded when fire broke…
reviewed
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D
Dongdaemun
Seoul’s eastern fortress gate dates back to the 14th century, but the existing structure was built in 1869 and had to be renovated after being severely damaged during the Korean War when Seoul changed hands four times. Dongdaemun Market starts at this gate.
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E
Anglican Church
An imposing Renaissance-style church built in the shape of a cross with Korean-style tiles on the roof – it’s a fine example of architectural fusion. Work on the church began in 1922 but the full design was not completed until 1996.
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F
National Assembly
The pillared National Assembly building with a green roof was completed in 1975. The tours take about 30 minutes but are not always available. Entry is via the tours only – you can’t wander about by yourself.
reviewed