Sungnyemun Unveiled to Public

The mostly restored Sungnyemun meaning the Gate of Exalted Ceremonies or commonly known as Namdaemun meaning the Great South Gate was unveiled to the public early this week. Namdaemun is a historic gate located in the heart of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It is the first among the National Treasures of South Korea.

The wooden portion atop the gate was severely damaged by arson in the 2008, an arsonist set the gate on fire on the final day of Seolnal hoiliday in 2008. The entire country saw the this gate turned to ashes on Seolnal of 2008. A sad moment indeed.

The city gate, made of wood and stone with a two-tiered, pagoda-shaped tiled roof, was completed in 1398 (610 years old) and originally used to greet foreign emissaries, control access to the capital city, and keep out Korean tigers, which have long been gone from the area. Construction began in 1395 during the fourth year of the reign of King Taejo of Joseon and was finished in 1398.

The restoration project is due for final completion in April of this year because the unusually cold weather delayed construction work and at this point, an administrative office is unfinished.

If you are in Seoul, don't forget to visit the Namdaemun gate as well as the traditional Namdaemun Market, it has become much more touristic than any other other traditional market however, it's easy to access. Prices and some souvenire are sold at lesser prices than anywhere else.