Heunginjimun

Heunginjimun
Korean name
Hangul 동대문 also 흥인지문
Hanja 東大門 also 興仁之門
Revised Romanization Dongdaemun also Heunginjimun
McCune–Reischauer Tongdaemun also Hŭnginjimun

Heunginjimun, literally "Gate of Rising Benevolence" or more commonly known as Dongdaemun, is one of The Eight Gates of Seoul in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, a prominent landmark in central Seoul, South Korea. The Korean name "Dongdaemun" means "Great East Gate," and it was so named because it was the major eastern gate in the wall that surrounded Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty. The gate is located at Jongno 6-ga in Jongno-gu.

History

The structure was first built by King Taejo during his fifth year of reign (1398). It was renovated in 1453, and the current structure is the one rebuilt in 1869.

In August 2011, the roof of the gate was partially damaged by record rainfall. The rain-inflicted damage includes chipped roof's ridge. An official of the Cultural Heritage Administration stated that "The aged gate underwent repairs in 1998 and seems to have become soaked in heavy rains".[1]

Characteristics

Today, the area around Dongdaemun known as Dongdaemun Market includes upmarket shopping districts as well as several underground shops, stalls and markets that are open for much of the day and night. It has grown into the largest shopping center in South Korea. Popular to both foreigners and natives, many shops around the area are available for bargain. Additionally, there are many food stalls around the area which houses many popular Korean snacks. In 2007, the City of Seoul started Dongdaemun Design Project (DDP), to renovate what used to be Dongdaemun Stadium (an amateur baseball park). With world-famous architect Zaha Hadid's design, when completed this structure is expected to be one of the most notable landmarks in downtown Seoul. Heunginjimun shows architectural style of the late Joseon period. The most unusual characteristic is its built outer wall, Ongseong. Ongseong was constructed to compensate the weakness of the target from multiple invaders. It protects the gate and is a beautiful addition.[2]

Location of the Gate

Heunginjimun is located at the intersection of subway lines 1 and 4, at Dongdaemun Station (동대문역). The gate is within easy reach of exit 1 or exits 6–10 of this station.

Images

Heunginjimun, rear of gate, before 1920.
Heunginjimun, historical image
Heunginjimun, rear of gate, May 2012.
Heunginjimun Gate, Seoul, South Korea
Heunginjimun, side of gate, May 2012.
Heunginjimun Gate, side view, Seoul, Korea

See also

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Dongdaemun.
  1. ↑ "Torrential Rains Damage Historic Landmark in Seoul". Chosun Ilbo. 3 August 2011. Retrieved 6 July 2012.
  2. ↑ "Heunginjimun (Gate)". visit korea. Retrieved 1 December 2014.

Coordinates: 37°34′16.15″N 127°0′34.70″E / 37.5711528°N 127.0096389°E