Hwangudan Altar (환구단) - Area information - Korea travel information

Hwangudan Altar (환구단)

Hwangudan Altar (환구단)

5.3Km    2020-05-07

112, Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
+82-2-3396-5842

Hwangudan Altar, also called Hwandan Altar, refers to an altar complex for the rite of heaven. The rites were first performed in the Goryeo dynasty by King Seongjong in the first month of 983 (2nd year of his reign), but was repeatedly adopted and abolished, and eventually stopped at the start of the Joseon dynasty.

Then in 1456 (2nd year of King Sejo), the practice was temporarily standardized and the rites were performed at Hwangudan Altar again in 1457. However, rites were again abolished in 1464 (10th year of King Sejo). It wasn’t until 1897 (34th year of King Gojong) when the Joseon dynasty was renamed as the Korean Empire and King Gojong ascended to emperor, that the rite was revived.

Now, Hwangungu Shrine and three stone drums stand at the location of the former altar complex. The three stone drums symbolize the instruments used for the rites. The shrine was completed in 1899, two years after the altar was started in 1897. Today, the Hwangungu Shrine still stands within the hotel grounds of the Westin Chosun Hotel.

Sejong-ro Park (세종로공원)

Sejong-ro Park (세종로공원)

5.3Km    2022-08-31

jiha 189, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-722-9598

Sejong-ro Park is located next to Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in central Seoul. Inside the park, there are wooden benches and shaded areas where people can sit and relax. Also available are water fountains, a round outdoor stage, and various sculptures. The lunch crowd from the nearby office buildings often come to the park during weekdays. On the weekends, the park is also used as a venue for outdoor weddings.

Seoul's anthem and the poem "Bulnori" by Ju Yo-han are written on a memorial stone that can be found inside the park.

Gallery Simon (갤러리 시몬)

Gallery Simon (갤러리 시몬)

5.3Km    2022-09-15

20, Jahamun-ro 6-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-720-3031

Since its opening in April, 1994, Gallery Simon has continued to focus on promoting the beauty of modern art. Exhibitions include works from experienced artists as well as the works of budding artists, both from Korea and abroad. Select artists, referred to collectively as "Simon's Friends," have exhibitions annually. The changing collections allow the museum and featured artists to constantly strive for improvement and follow the changes in art over time.

Frisbee - Gwanghwamun Branch [Tax Refund Shop] (FR광화문점(금강 프리스비))

Frisbee - Gwanghwamun Branch [Tax Refund Shop] (FR광화문점(금강 프리스비))

5.3Km    2024-04-16

1F, 8, Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

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The Story of King Sejong (세종이야기)

The Story of King Sejong (세종이야기)

5.3Km    2022-09-13

jiha 175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-399-1000

The Story of King Sejong comprises six different sections with a total area of 3,200 square meters. The museum consists of exhibition zones, an event space, video room, shop and more to display King Sejong’s scientific, artistic, military, and political contributions, including the theory of Minbon, which recognized the people as the base of politics. King Sejong, the 4th king of the Joseon dynasty (1397-1450, reigning from 1418-1450) was responsible for some of the most brilliant achievements in the history of Korea, including the creation of Hangeul (Korean alphabet) and great advancements in the areas of science, culture, art and politics.

King Sejong Statue (세종대왕 동상)

King Sejong Statue (세종대왕 동상)

5.3Km    2024-03-04

175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-2133-7713

King Sejong Statue can be found at Seoul’s Gwanghawmun Square. The statue commemorates King Sejong the Great (1397-1450, reign 1418-1450), the fourth king of Joseon (1392-1897). He is thought to be the greatest king in Korean history, for he is credited with great developments in science and technology, expansion of Joseon’s territory, and the creation of the Korean script, [Hangeul]. King Sejong’s likeness can be found on the 10,000 won bill as well. 

Cancelled: Gwanghwamun International Art Festival (광화문국제아트페스티벌)

Cancelled: Gwanghwamun International Art Festival (광화문국제아트페스티벌)

5.3Km    2022-11-14

175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• 1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese) • For more info: +82-2-723-9484~7

Gwanghwamun International Art Festival is designed to increase public knowledge and appreciation for the arts and culture. In addition to the art exhibitions, visitors will also be able to enjoy various performances and try different kinds of arts and crafts such as ceramics, silver handicrafts, leather handicrafts, and  more. The festival is also making a continuous effort to deliver more exciting programs and activities for visitors' enjoyment.

Shinsegae Duty Free Shop - Myeong-dong Branch (신세계면세점 명동점)

Shinsegae Duty Free Shop - Myeong-dong Branch (신세계면세점 명동점)

5.3Km    2017-06-13

77, Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Opened in May 2016, the Shinsegae Duty Free Store in Myeong-dong offers culture, tourism, and shopping on the 8-12 floors of the main branch of Shinsegae Department Store. The shops sell famous international brands as well as top Korean brands for a global shopping experience. The store is located nearby popular tourist attractions N Seoul Tower and Namdaemun Traditional Market, making it easy to enjoy tourism and shopping in one location.

Shinsegae Duty Free Shop - Myeong-dong Branch Handicraft Store (신세계면세점 명동점 수공예품 매장)

Shinsegae Duty Free Shop - Myeong-dong Branch Handicraft Store (신세계면세점 명동점 수공예품 매장)

5.3Km    2016-10-11

77, Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Korea Craft and Design Foundation Handicraft Store located within the giftshop of Shinsegae Duty Free Shop Myeong-dong Branch sells handcrafted everyday props and cultural crafts. Dedicated to the concept of "Artisans, and Artists," the store introduces young artists as well as famous handicraft masters along with their masterpieces of diverse genre in the world of Korean arts and craft.

Syabue Wang (샤브왕)

Syabue Wang (샤브왕)

5.3Km    2021-03-25

167, Singil-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
+82-2-836-9042

A place selling maratang, popular among Koreans who like spicy food. This Korean dishes restaurant is located in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. The most famous menu is mala soup.