Considered Seoul’s National Treasure Number One, we gather before the majestic Namdaemun. Officially known as Sungnyemun, this gate stands as a proud testament to Seoul’s rich history. It marks the original southern boundary of the city during the Joseon period.
Namdaemun means South Great Door. Sungnyemun means Honoring Propriety Gate. Construction of Namdaemun first began in 1395 during the reign of King Taejo. It was completed in 1398. Imagine this very gate greeting foreign emissaries. Picture it controlling access to the capital. Envision it keeping out Siberian tigers.
The city walls once stretched for 18.2 kilometers. They stood up to 6.1 meters high. Namdaemun was one of the three major gateways through these walls. The others were Dongdaemun East Gate and the now-demolished Seodaemun West Gate.
In 1447, during King Sejong the Great’s reign, Namdaemun was rebuilt. Over the centuries, it has seen many renovations. The name Sungnyemun’s tablet is written vertically. King Taejo believed fire would reach Gyeongbokgung. Mount Gwanaksan looks like fire according to feng shui. Sungnyemun’s name means fire. The vertical writing looks like it is providing protection.
In the early 20th century, Seoul’s city walls were demolished for traffic efficiency. A visit by the Crown Prince of Japan hastened the process. He was deemed too important to pass through the gateway. In 1938, Namdaemun became Korean Treasure No. 1.
Namdaemun suffered extensive damage during the Korean War. Major repairs concluded on May 14, 1963. It officially became National Treasure No. 1 on December 20, 1962. A lawn was built around Namdaemun during a renovation in 2005. It reopened to the public with fanfare on March 3, 2006.
Tragedy struck on February 10, 2008. A fire broke out damaging the wooden structure atop Namdaemun. Despite the efforts of over 360 firefighters, the structure was destroyed. A 69-year-old man confessed to arson. He was upset about land compensation.
The Cultural Heritage Administration undertook a three-year restoration. The cost was approximately $14 million. President Lee Myung-bak initiated a private donation campaign. By January 2010, significant progress had been made. Twenty-two thousand roof tiles were produced in a traditional kiln.
On April 29, 2013, restoration was completed. The grand reopening occurred on May 4, 2013. Only six months later, paint started to chip. Wood began to crack. President Park Geun-hye ordered an investigation.
Today, Namdaemun stands as a symbol of resilience. It represents the enduring spirit of Seoul. As you pass through, remember its history. Feel the weight of the centuries. This is more than just a gate. Namdaemun is a testament to Korea’s past. It is a beacon for its future.