Sukjeongmun Gate

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.

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.

Nearby Sights

Samcheong-dong

Samcheongdong is a trendy and upscale neighborhood of Seoul that lies in a scenic area just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House). This youthful neighborhood is named after the clean and beautiful water, mountains, and residents in the area.

Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House)

Cheong Wa Dae, or Blue House, is the official residence of the President of the Republic of Korea. It was built with traditional Korean architectural styles. The name comes from the translation of Cheong Wa Dae which means "pavilion of blue tiles."

Gilsangsa Temple

Gilsangsa Temple is a fairly new and popular Buddhist temple complex surrounded by nature and beauty in hills of Seongbuk-dong, a neighborhood of Seoul. Since 1997, Gilsangsa has become popular with both locals and tourists for its harmony with nature.

Yoon Dong-ju Literature Museum

The Yoon Dong-ju Literature Museum is dedicated to Yoon Dong-ju, one of Korea’s most beloved poets. Yoon’s extensive collection of over 100 poems, including ‘Sky, Wind, Stars, and Poem,’ was profoundly influenced and shaped by the colonial rule that prevailed during his lifetime.

Changuimun Gate (Jahamun Gate)

Changuimun Gate, located in northern Seoul, is one of the Four Small Gates of Seoul Fortress. In the past, the gate has also been known as Jahamun and Buksosomun. Construction started in 1396 during the beginning years of the Joseon Dynasty.

Seoul Munmyo

Seoul Munmyo is a shrine dedicated to Confucius, his disciples, and other great scholars. In the past, it has also gone by the name Munseonwangmyo. During the Joseon Dynasty, the buildings were used as an educational institution.

Last Updated on Apr 29, 2022