Ujeongchongguk (Central Post Office)

Ujeongchongguk (Central Post Office) was established as the first post office of Korea on April 22, 1884 during the reign of King Gojong. Postal service began on November 18, 1884. It was the first modern postal service. Service was suspended during the Gapsin Coup on December 4, 1884. Service was resumed on July 22, 1895.

In 1904, a patriotic organization known as Boanhoe held a massive anti-Japan rally at this location.

In October 1970, Ujeongchongguk was recognized as Historical Site Number 213. It is one of the oldest non palace buildings in Seoul.

The post office was reopened for service on August 28, 2012. It has since become a symbol of Korean patriotism during the occupation and as a historic piece of Korean postal history.

The building was used as a school during the occupation of Korea. After the occupation, the building was not used as it was considered a former Japanese building. It faced demolition but was saved by the Ministry of Post and Communication. They purchased the building in 1956.

Nearby Sights

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea and a symbol of Korean Buddhism. It is located in the heart of the city near Insadong. Since 1936, it has been the head temple of the first district of the Jogye Order of Korea Buddhism.

Insa-dong

Insadong is a popular neighborhood in the heart of Seoul that is often visited by locals and tourists wanting to experience traditional culture of Korea. Streets and narrow back alleys are lined with art galleries, wooden tea houses, restaurants, cafes, and small shops selling arts and crafts. The main street, Insadong-gil, runs for 700 meters from Tapgol Park in the south to Anguk-dong Rotary.

Ssamziegil

Ssamziegil is a colorful shopping and culture complex in Insadong that features cafes, galleries, and workshops that mix modern and traditional Korean styles.

Cheondogyo Central Temple

When Cheondogyo Central Temple was built between 1918 and 1921 it was used as a temple of Cheondoism, a 20th century Korean religious movement. Cheondogyo literally means "religion of the Heavenly Way."

Seung-dong Presbyterian Church

Seung Dong Presbyterian Church, located near Insadong, was established in 1893 by Samuel Foreman Moore (1860-1906). Over the years, the church has been relocated and renamed many times. Before being renamed Seung Dong, it has been known by as Gondanggol, Jungang, and Baekjeong.

Unhyeongung Palace

Gojong, 26th king and emperor of Korea, was born at Unhyeongung Palace on September 8, 1852. He lived here until age 12 when he ascended to the throne. The residence was owned by Heungseon Daewongun, the father of Gojong.

Last Updated on Jul 13, 2023