Sukjeongmun Gate is the most northern of the Four Main Gates of Seoul Fortress. It is also known as Bukdaemun, literally meaning North Big Gate. When originally built in 1396, it was known as Sukcheongmun. In the 16th century, it was renamed to Sukjeongmun, which means Rule Solemnly Gate.
Sukjeongmun was built north of Seoul behind Gyeongbokgung Palace. Because of its location, it was barely used. Its main use was only for ceremonious and symbolic functions.
Access to the area requires identification such as a passport. Those without proper identification will be denied entry.
Closed on Mondays.
This northern gate represents water and shady energy according to Yin, Yang, and the Five Elements. Because of this, the passageway was left open during droughts of the Joseon period.
The current gatehouse dates back only to 1976 as the original was destroyed during a fire and has since been rebuilt
In 1968, North Korean commandos passed through this area as they attempted to infiltrate the nearby Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House), the residence of the president of South Korea. Their goal was to assassinate president Park Chung-hee. Their mission failed.
After the failed attack, public access to the surrounding area was terminated due to security issues. In 2007, the gate was reopened to the public.
Today, those wishing to access Sukjeongmun must bring identification such as a passport. Photos of soldiers in the area or towards the presidential residence are strictly forbidden.
Table of Contents
Sukjeongmun Gate Hours
April-October : 09:00-15:00
November-March : 10:00-15:00
Closed on Mondays.
Admission
FreeHow to get to Sukjeongmun Gate
Take Subway Line 4 to Hansung University Station (Exit 6)
From here, take Bus 1111 or Bus 2112 to the stop for Jongjeom (Myeongsu School).
Once here, follow Seongbuk-ro to the right of the park.
At the first intersection, make a left onto Daesagwan-ro.
Continue for 10 minutes.
You will pass a small gate on the right and see a large tunnel in front of you.
Before the large tunnel, make a right and follow the stairs up for another few minutes to reach the checkpoint.
Map
Additional Resources
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Last Updated on Apr 29, 2022