South Korea, Sukyongmun Gate

South Korea, Sukyongmun Gate

The Sukyongmun Gate, also called the North Gate, is one of the four Great Wall gates that surrounded Seoul during the Joseon era. The gates were built in 1396 in the northern part of the city, behind the palace complex of Gyeongbokgung, in which the royal family lived. The second name of the gate is Bukdamun, which means “the great northern gate”.

Initially, as soon as the gates were built, they were called Sukchongmun. Later, at the beginning of the 16th century, the gate was called Sukyongmun, which in translation means “the gates of solemn customs.” Since the gates were located next to the royal palace of Gyeongbokgung, they were rarely open to visitors, mostly used in some ceremonies. There is an assumption that the gates were closed because of the belief that if they were opened, the evil spirit would penetrate the city. The room above the palace gate was built of wood, and, unfortunately, was destroyed by fire. The premise above the gates, which we see today, was built in 1976.

Sukyongmun Gate

After in 1968, DPRK security agents tried to kill Pak Jong-hee, the president of the South Korean Republic, the gates and the surrounding area were blocked for security reasons. The dressed agents then attempted to go through this gate and enter the Blue (Blue) House, the official residence of the President of South Korea, but the attempt was prevented.

Once again, the Sukyongmun Gate became accessible to visitors only in 2007. However, this territory remains a well-guarded zone patrolled by soldiers of the South Korean army. Today, to visit the gates, visitors need to show their passport and fill out a special form. Photography near the gate and the gate itself is prohibited.

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