The Seoul City Wall, also known as Hanyangdoseong, is a historic fortification that encircles Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Initially constructed in 1396 during the Joseon Dynasty, it was intended to protect the city from invaders and demarcate its boundaries. The wall originally stretched for approximately 18.6 kilometers and featured eight gates, of which four were major "Great Gates" and four were smaller "Minor Gates."
One of the key sections of the Seoul City Wall passes through Jangchung-dong, an area in the Jung-gu district of Seoul. This area is notable for its blend of historical significance and modern development. Jangchung-dong is home to the Jangchung Arena, a major indoor sports venue built in 1963, which has hosted numerous significant cultural and sports events over the decades.
A lesser-known fact about the Seoul City Wall is that it was built using a combination of large stones at the base and smaller stones on top, reflecting the construction techniques of the time. The wall also features several beacon mounds, or "bongsudae," which were used for signaling alerts in case of an invasion. These beacons allowed for rapid communication across the city and to the surrounding regions.
The Heunginjimun Gate, also known as Dongdaemun, is one of the major gates of the Seoul City Wall located near Jangchung-dong. This gate is unique for its double-layered structure, with an outer wall known as an "ongseong" that was designed to trap and slow down invaders.
Another interesting feature near Jangchung-dong is the Naksan Park, which provides a scenic view of the Seoul City Wall as it snakes through the hilly terrain. The park is named after Naksan Mountain, which means "Camel Mountain" due to its camel-like shape. The park offers both historical context and natural beauty, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
In the vicinity of Jangchung-dong, the Donggwanwangmyo Shrine stands as a testament to the area's rich cultural heritage. This shrine is dedicated to Guan Yu, a famous general from the Three Kingdoms period of China, reflecting the historical cultural exchanges between Korea and China.
The restoration and preservation efforts for the Seoul City Wall have been ongoing, with significant sections, including those near Jangchung-dong, being meticulously restored to their original state. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to preserve Seoul's cultural heritage and make it accessible to the public for educational and recreational purposes.
Overall, the Seoul City Wall and its passages through Jangchung-dong offer a unique glimpse into the historical and cultural fabric of Seoul, blending ancient fortifications with modern urban life.