Name: Gwanghwamun Square
Address: 172 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Telephone: 02-2133-7732
Rating: 4.4

Huge public square opened in 2009 as part of an environmentally friendly redevelopment of Seoul.

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During the 2009 renovation, the 16-lane Sejongno was reduced to 10 lanes, creating more space for the plaza.

Traffic Lane Reduction

At its opening in 2009, the plaza was adorned with a flower carpet made of 224,537 flowers, representing the number of days since Seoul became the capital.

Floral Carpet

From 2020 to 2022, the plaza underwent another renovation, doubling its size and reducing Sejong-daero to 6 lanes.

Plaza Expansion

The plaza features a statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a renowned Joseon Dynasty naval commander.

Admiral Statue

Another prominent statue in the plaza is that of King Sejong the Great, known for his contributions to Korean language and culture.

Royal Figure

Gwanghwamun Square, a vast and vibrant public space, stretches out before the majestic Gwanghwamun Gate, the main and largest gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. This iconic landmark, more than just a square, embodies the historical and cultural heart of Seoul.  The statues of King Sejong the Great, revered for creating the Korean alphabet, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, famed for his naval victories, stand as testaments to Korea's rich past. Beneath the square lies a hidden treasure - the recently excavated remains of Yukjo Street, a Joseon Dynasty-era road. This archaeological wonder offers a glimpse into the daily lives of ordinary Koreans centuries ago.  The square's design, with its central walkway leading towards Gwanghwamun, creates a powerful visual axis that connects the past and present, symbolizing Korea's journey through time.  Gwanghwamun Square is not merely a place to pass through but a destination to experience the living history and vibrant spirit of Seoul.

Introduction

Gwanghwamun Square stands as a testament to Seoul's commitment to reclaiming urban spaces for pedestrians. Once dominated by a 16-lane highway, the square's transformation involved a radical reallocation of space, prioritizing pedestrian walkways and public gathering areas over vehicular traffic. This ambitious project aimed to restore the historical significance of the area while creating a vibrant public space. The square's design reflects a deep understanding of pedestrian flow and public engagement.  The wide-open layout accommodates large crowds, while strategically placed monuments and water features provide points of interest and encourage movement. The restoration of the historic Gwanghwamun Gate and the statue of King Sejong the Great further enhance the square's cultural significance, seamlessly blending the past and present. This careful integration of historical elements within a modern urban design framework makes Gwanghwamun Square a compelling case study in urban revitalization. The square's success lies in its ability to function as both a cultural and recreational hub, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Urban Planning

Gwanghwamun Square isn't just a public space; it's a palimpsest of Korean national identity, layered with historical echoes and contemporary aspirations. The towering statue of King Sejong the Great, creator of the Korean alphabet, embodies a reverence for cultural heritage and intellectual innovation deeply ingrained in the national psyche. Flanking the square, statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a revered naval hero, and other prominent figures from Korean history, stand as silent reminders of the nation's resilience and triumphs over adversity. These figures, carefully chosen for their embodiment of national values, transform the square into an open-air pantheon of Korean heroes, inspiring patriotism and a sense of shared history.  Even the layout of the square itself, designed to accommodate large-scale public gatherings, speaks to the importance of communal identity in Korean society. It's a space where national celebrations and protests unfold, where individual voices converge to form a collective expression of Korean identity.  Gwanghwamun Square, therefore, transcends its physical form to become a powerful symbol of Korea's past, present, and future aspirations.

National Identity

Gwanghwamun Square comes alive with a vibrant tapestry of Korean cultural performances, offering a unique window into the nation's soul. Beyond the grandeur of the architecture and the historical significance, the square transforms into an open-air stage where tradition meets modernity. Witness the intricate choreography and vibrant costumes of the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a spectacle that transports onlookers back to the Joseon Dynasty. Throughout the year, the square pulsates with the rhythm of traditional Korean music and dance. From the elegant fan dances and percussion-driven spectacles of Samulnori to the mesmerizing melodies of pansori (narrative singing), these performances offer an immersive experience of Korea's artistic heritage.  Many of these events are free to the public, making them accessible to both locals and tourists alike. Whether it's a celebration of a national holiday or a weekend festival, Gwanghwamun Square promises a dynamic and engaging experience for those seeking the true spirit of Korean culture.

Cultural Performances

Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul served as a grand stage for royal processions during the Joseon Dynasty. These processions, steeped in tradition and symbolism, would traverse the square, showcasing the majesty and authority of the Joseon rulers. The wide expanse of Gwanghwamun Square, flanked by important government buildings, provided a fitting backdrop for these displays of power. Imagine the spectacle: rows of meticulously dressed soldiers leading the way, followed by musicians with traditional instruments filling the air with vibrant melodies. As the procession moved through Gwanghwamun Square, the King, carried in an ornate palanquin, would acknowledge the crowds gathered to witness this display of royal power. The procession served not merely as a visual spectacle but also as a symbolic act, reinforcing the connection between the ruler and the ruled. The grandeur of Gwanghwamun Square, with its imposing architecture and historical significance, served to amplify the impact of these royal processions, etching them into the annals of Seoul's history.

Royal Processions

Gwanghwamun Square stands as a silent witness to decades of Korean history, its vast expanse echoing with the voices of countless protestors who have shaped the nation's destiny. From the student-led April Revolution of 1960, demanding the resignation of President Syngman Rhee, to the June Democracy Movement of 1987, which ultimately led to democratic reforms, Gwanghwamun Square has been the epicenter of citizen-led movements. The square's symbolic location, facing the royal Gyeongbokgung Palace and government buildings, amplifies the impact of these protests, bringing the people's demands directly to the doorstep of those in power.  It was here in 2016 and 2017 that the Candlelight Revolution unfolded, a series of peaceful demonstrations calling for the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye. Millions gathered, their candles illuminating the night, demonstrating the collective power of peaceful resistance and forever etching Gwanghwamun Square in the annals of South Korea's fight for justice and democracy.  The echoes of these historical protests continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of the people and the enduring pursuit of a just and equitable society.

Historical Protests

Gwanghwamun Square stands as a testament to Seoul's layered history, its architectural tapestry weaving a narrative of both destruction and resurrection. The square's current form, a meticulous restoration completed in 2009, reflects the Joseon Dynasty's original vision, showcasing a harmonious blend of political power and cultural significance. Key to this restoration is Gwanghwamun Gate itself, once the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace.  Razed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history, the gate's current incarnation incorporates salvaged wooden elements from the Joseon period, tangible links to the square's storied past. Flanking the square are two structures that embody distinct architectural styles: the modern Sejong Center for the Performing Arts and the stately statue of King Sejong the Great. This juxtaposition highlights the evolution of Korean architectural sensibilities while emphasizing the enduring reverence for the Joseon Dynasty.  Even the seemingly simple design choice of paving materials contributes to the square's historical narrative. The use of granite, quarried from all corners of South Korea, symbolizes national unity and echoes the traditional building practices of the Joseon era.

Architectural Heritage

During the Joseon Dynasty, Gwanghwamun Square served as the grand entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the dynasty's principal royal palace. This meticulously planned square embodied the dynasty's Confucian ideals, with its layout reflecting a strict social hierarchy. The square's central axis, running south from Gwanghwamun Gate, was reserved for the king, emphasizing his paramount position. Officials traversed the square according to their rank, their paths dictated by meticulously placed stone markers that underscored the Confucian emphasis on order and decorum.  The square also bore witness to significant historical events. It was here that royal proclamations were read aloud to the populace, echoing the dynasty's power and connection to its people.  The square's original design, largely destroyed during the Imjin War and subsequent periods of decline, has been meticulously restored in recent decades, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and meticulous planning that characterized the Joseon era.

Joseon Dynasty

Gwanghwamun Square pulses as the symbolic heart of Seoul, a tangible representation of Korea's enduring spirit. More than just a public space, it embodies the nation's history, resilience, and aspirations. The towering statue of King Sejong, father of the Korean alphabet, stands as a testament to cultural innovation, while the imposing figure of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, revered naval strategist, embodies unwavering courage. These figures, chosen for their profound impact on Korean identity, are not confined to history books but are brought to life in the heart of the city, reminding citizens of their heritage daily. The square itself, a vast open space amidst the bustling metropolis, serves as a gathering point for cultural events, protests, and celebrations. It's a place where the collective heartbeat of the nation reverberates, where joy and sorrow, triumph and struggle, are shared and witnessed. Gwanghwamun Square, therefore, transcends its physical form, becoming a powerful symbol of Korean identity, a place where the past, present, and future converge in the heart of Seoul.

Symbolic Heart

Gwanghwamun Square, a vast and symbolic space in the heart of Seoul, has become synonymous with public gatherings of all kinds.  This iconic plaza has witnessed historic protests that shaped the nation, with massive crowds gathering to voice their opinions and demands for democratic change. From student-led movements in the 1980s to the more recent candlelight vigils that led to the impeachment of a president, Gwanghwamun Square has been a crucible for public sentiment and a catalyst for social and political transformation.  The square's wide-open layout, flanked by significant landmarks like the Gwanghwamun Gate and the statue of King Sejong the Great, provides a powerful backdrop for these gatherings, amplifying their impact and etching them into the nation's collective memory.  Beyond political demonstrations, Gwanghwamun Square also hosts a diverse array of public events, from cultural festivals and art exhibitions to concerts and sporting events.  These gatherings transform the square into a vibrant hub of activity, drawing locals and tourists alike to celebrate, commemorate, and simply enjoy the shared experience of public life in the heart of Seoul.

Gwanghwamun Square

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Traffic Lane Reduction

Floral Carpet

Plaza Expansion

Admiral Statue

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