The Great Southern Gate Destroyed
South Korea's most valued national treasure, the Namdaemun or "Great Southern Gate," was severely damaged by fire on February 10, 2008.Built between 1395 and 1398, the monument is one of three gates built into the walls that once fortified the city of Seoul. The Namdaemun was considered the oldest wooden structure in the city.
Fire authorities believe the blaze was set by 69 year old Chae Jong-gi , a man who had previously been charged with setting a fire at Chnggyeoung Palace in 2006. The man has confessed to the crime, stating that he set fire to the historic gate with paint thinner and disposable lighters after not being paid in full for land that he recently sold to developers.
South Korean officials estimate that it will take three years to rebuild the wooden structure on top of the stone foundation and that restoration will cost about $21 million. President elect Lee Myung-bak has called for private donations to fund the rebuilding effort.
For more on the loss of this significant artistic treasure, see: http://news.bbc.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7238210.stm/
2 comments:
Wow, that is a very tragic loss.
Indeed very sad that something made by people in ancient times would now be gone. What is wrong with art and monuments being ruined by people who want to shock their government? The guy, who was responsible, is sick. I heard they will be constructing another building to replace it but it will never be the same. It will never be seen first hand, it will be more of a memory of the old one, instead of a memory of the people who contributed to it. I know there will be placards talking about the people but will not be able to be in awe, that they actually made that building. Except for something similar like the one people will be in.
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