My parents-in-law visited us yesterday and while we were having dinner, the news that Sungnyemun is burning was on TV. So many firefighters were there trying to put off the flames that was the engulfing National Treasure no. 1. After more than four hours, the grand 600-year old gate is gone.
I’m saddened by what happened. The Sungnyemun or Namdaemun (Great South Gate) is one of my favorite tourist spots in Seoul. I have so much respect for things ancient and historical. The last time I saw the structure was in December, when I had some dollars changed at the nearby Namdaemun market.
I’m thinking of going there this afternoon. Maybe I could take some charcoal? Oops. I’d like to take some pictures but my sister-in-law borrowed both my camera and camcorder.
Here are pictures of the fire last night. And down below are pictures I took when I showed my sister National Treasure No. 1. (I have more pictures but I couldn’t find them.)
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
oh wow thats such a beautiful place, its saddening to hear that its gone forever
Wow, what a tragedy… I am truly sorry to hear one of the four gates has been destroyed. I hope they plan on restoring it.
it’s going to be restored… it will take about three years though…