National Treasure #1 Burns

A sad thing happened in Seoul, Korea recently when Namdaemun Gate burned down as a result of arson. The arsonist was a homeless man who apparently set the fire on purpose. From what I've gathered in news reports, several homeless people had taken refuge in the gate's top floor at night for many months. Despite security gaurds being employed at the gate, the homeless were not prevented from breaking in.


Here is the gate as it was prior to the fire.

This gate was a place where, everyday, ceremonies were conducted. I was able to see one of them when I was touring the Namdaemun Market area.

The gate is positioned inside a large turnabout where thousands of people see it daily by driving or walking by it. I think it will be rebuilt in the same location, but it will never be the same.

One cameraman took photos of the crowds that gathered to see their National Treasure #1 burn down.