Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun)

also known as Namdaemun (“Great South Gate”), is one of the historic Eight Gates in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, South Korea. Originally built in 1398 during the Joseon Dynasty, it served as the main southern gate to the capital city. Key points: • It’s designated as National Treasure No. 1 of South Korea. • The gate features traditional wooden architecture atop a stone base. • It was severely damaged by arson in 2008 but fully restored and reopened in 2013. • Located near the bustling Namdaemun Market, it’s a symbolic landmark blending Korea’s past with its modern urban landscape.

Try to match the change of guard!!! It is totally worth it, we saw it by chance and then the guards explain how the ceremony was done in the older times and they are super nice if you want to take a photo

Surrounded by all the high rise modern buildings, this is a true heritage in the Seoul city center. As one of the 8 gates in the fortress wall of Seoul, it's not surprise that the architecture looks grand, solid and sophisticated. As you walk through the gate, you can't help but admire the ceiling and the roof crafting. Too bad can't walk up to enjoy the view from above. Toilet available within the compound, very clean.

I passed by this gate a lot when using buses around Seoul, but this is my first time walking through it. They have a guards' performance here at specific times. The gate also has opening and closing times, so please make sure to check the schedule before visiting.

One of 8 gates that were along the fortress wall around Seoul during the Joseon dynasty. This is the south gate, and it is conveniently located between City Hall and Seoul Station (you can see both from the gate), so I recommend stopping by if you're in the neighborhood. The old architecture contrasted with the modern buildings is really interesting. The gate can be viewed from the street 24/7. However, you can enter the fenced-in lawn and get up close to the gate during business hours (usually 9am to 6pm). There is also small museum display and restrooms. Sadly, the wooden part of the gate was completely destroyed by arson in 2008, therefore the current wooden structure is a 2013 reconstruction. Overall, this is a great glimpse into the history of Korea. Note: you can also visit the east gate in the Dongdaemun area, which was another gate along the city wall.

I always go to this gate every time we visit Korea. I have been coming here for 40 years and I am always impressed that these monuments to Seoul’s past have been maintained for all to see. I always take a selfie with the front guard and once he even said something to me in English.

Known as Namdaemun (“Great South Gate”), is one of the historic Eight Gates in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, South Korea. Originally built in 1398 during the Joseon Dynasty, it served as the main southern gate to the capital city.

Popular landmark in center of seoul… 200m walking distance from Seoul station… historic landmark in middle of concrete cityscape which shows the mix of Korean historic culture & current technology modernization… if you are in Seoul it hard to miss this gate as it is located close most popular tourist attractions in Seoul