Namdaemun Gate

Namdaemun Gate

Namdaemun Gate is a city gate located in the heart of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It was completed in 1398 and designated as Korea's first National Treasure on December 20, 1962. Commonly referred to as Namdaemun, or "South Great Gate," it neighbors the bustling Namdaemun Market and stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul and all of Korea.

Among the four main city gates of old Seoul, Namdaemun was the largest in scale. It was once the oldest wooden structure in Seoul and became a national symbol of the entire country, earning the reputation of being the "National Gate." Originally built in 1395, during the Japanese colonial period, parts of the fortress walls were demolished in 1907 to accommodate urban redevelopment, leaving only the gate itself—which was then closed to the public. During the Korean War, Namdaemun suffered damage from wartime fire. A major restoration project was undertaken in 1961 and completed on May 14, 1963. In 2008, the gate was deliberately set on fire by a 70-year-old man, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences from both Korean citizens and international visitors.

Currently, construction fencing surrounds Namdaemun Gate, with transparent panels installed on the side facing the plaza, allowing the public to observe the reconstruction progress. Beneath these transparent panels, the fence is covered with white bulletin boards densely filled with messages from Korean citizens expressing sorrow and regret over the gate’s destruction—each word reflecting the deep attachment and reverence the people hold for Namdaemun.

Namdaemun

Must-visit reason: One of Korea’s most iconic landmarks

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Korea[Korea]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Seoul Special City [Seoul Special City]

City where the attraction is located: Jung-gu [Jung-gu]