Gwanghwamun Gate

Completed in September 1395 (4th year of the reign of King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty), Gwanghwamun Gate was originally named by Jeong Dojeon as Sajeongmun Gate, and was also known as Omun Gate at the time. In 1425 (7th year of the King Sejong’s reign), the name was changed to Gwanghwamun Gate by the scholars at the Hall of Worthies. Gwanghwamun Gate has three gates in total, with the central gate being the largest and the tallest. It was the gate used by the king while leaving or entering the palace, and the ceiling of the gate bore the painting of the Vermilion Bird, a mythical creature. The front of the gate has two statues of haetae (xiezhi), an auspicious and mythical creature. Gwanghwamun Gate is considered to be the greatest example of palatial gates in Korea, thanks to its elegant and majestic construction, and its formal balance and mastery.