The Sungraemun, a main gate of castle built or constructed for the purpose of protecting the capital city of Yi-dynasty, is called as the

South Gate because it is located in the south area of Seoul. The construction of this gate known as the oldest wooden building

remaining in Seoul was started in the 4th year of King Taejo (1395) and completed in the 7th year of King Taejo (1398).

According to record written in a document known as the Jibongyouseol”, Prince Yangnyeong wrote the hanging board of Sungraemun.

The current building was renovated or reconstructed in the 29th year of King Sejong (1447). The fact that a big construction work was

performed in the 10th year of King Seongjong (1479) was disclosed in the demolition and repair process conducted in 1961~1963.

The Hongyemun designed as the shape of rainbow was constructed or built in the center of stone axle. A pavilion type 2-story building

was built or constructed on this structure. The roof of this gate was seen as a rectangle and octagon when seeing or viewing in front

and side respectively.

The beams supporting the roof eaves of this gate were constructed on the columns and between columns. This gate designed as the

round shape clearly showed the architectural style used in the former term of Yi-dynasty. This gate known as the pride of Korean

people is a cultural property representing the architectural style of Yi-dynasty and currently recorded as the national treasure No. 1.

We hope the Sungraemun burnt on 10th February, 2008 to be restored as soon as possible.