Independence Gate - Dongnimmun - 독립문 Page - InfoMap

Independence Gate - Dongnimmun - 독립문

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Independence Gate, known in Korean as 독립문, or Dongnimmun, stands as a commemorative gate in Seoul, South Korea. Soh Jaipil envisioned its construction during the late 19th century, intending it to symbolize Korea's dedication to independence. Recognized as a Historic Site of South Korea in 1963, the gate was carefully relocated 70 meters northwest of its original position in 1979 to ensure its preservation. Dongnimmun boasts dimensions of 14.28 meters in height and 11.48 meters in width, crafted from around 1,850 granite pieces.In 1895, the Government of Joseon shifted its diplomatic stance, ending the sadae policy of treating China as superior. They symbolized this change by demolishing Yeongeunmun, a gate built in the 16th century to welcome Chinese diplomats. This marked their formal release from China's influence, solidified by the Treaty of Shimonoseki after the First Sino-Japanese War. Soh Jaipil proposed and King Gojong approved the construction of a new gate, named Independence Arch (Korean: 독립문), near Yeongeunmun's former site, symbolizing the nation's pursuit of freedom. To fund this endeavor, Soh founded the Independence Club and published Tongnip Sinmun, Korea's inaugural modern newspaper, encouraging public donations. The design of Independence Gate drew inspiration from Paris' Arc de Triomphe, with a blueprint crafted by a Swiss architect working for the German legation in Joseon. Construction commenced in 1896, overseen by Korean engineer Sim Ŭi-sŏk, and concluded in January 1898. In subsequent years, Independence Gate was designated a historic site of South Korea in 1963. Originally situated near Yeongeunmun's ruins, it was later relocated 70 meters northwest due to urban development, now residing in Seodaemun Independence Park alongside Dongnimmun for easy accessibility from Seoul Subway Line 3's Dongnimmun Station exits 4 or 5.

Inserted: 27-09-2023 17:09:16

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