Have you ever had the opportunity to visit Seoul? If so, you have undoubtedly heard of this renowned location: Gwanghwamun Square. For a long time, Gwanghwamun has stood as a central space for historical and cultural activities in South Korea. Through architectural marvels like Gwanghwamun, visitors can gain insights into the historical context and architectural trends of the past. One such architectural marvel is Gwanghwamun located in Seoul, Jung Gu, the main gate of Gyeongbok Palace, constructed during the Joseon dynasty.
Gwanghwamun, located at the southern entrance of Gyeongbok Palace, means "the Great Gate of Light," symbolizing the king’s power shining over the nation. Grandly constructed, Gwanghwamun serves as a fortress gate providing access to the main buildings in the palace, which are aligned in a straight layout. Gyeongbokgung, the main palace of the Joseon dynasty, was completed in 1395 and means "Greatly Blessed by Heaven." It is a royal palace with 390 rooms, including important buildings such as Geunjeongjeon (the hall for royal ceremonies), Sajeongjeon (the king’s main office), Jiphyeonjeon (the hall where scholars studied), and Gangnyeongjeon (the residence of the king and queen). Gwanghwamun represents the authority of the Joseon royal family and the state. Due to its symbolic significance, Gwanghwamun had to endure multiple devastations. During the Japanese invasion and colonial period, it was burned and demolished as part of cultural eradication policies. Gyeongbokgung was relocated and destroyed during the Korean War in 1950, along with other structures like Manchunjeon.
The current Gwanghwamun, reconstructed in 2010, restores its original location and design. The statues of King Sejong and General Yi Sun-sin stand in the infront of Gwanghwamun square. The central square hosts various art and sculpture exhibitions, making it a must-visit for tourists. Additionally, the Cheonggyecheon stream, a symbol of urban redevelopment, is about five minutes away from Gwanghwamun. Visitors are also encouraged to explore nearby attractions such as Gwangjang Market and Myeongdong. A visit to Gwanghwamun offers a deep dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the area, complete with bustling markets and street vendors.
June 9th
Chaeyeon Lee