Namdaemun Gate

Namdaemun, the "Great Southern Gate," was originally one of the four main gates of the old city wall in Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Its official title is Sungnyemun, meaning "Gate of Exalted Ceremonies." The gate was the the southern end of the wall that surrounded the capital from 1392-1910, during the Josean Dynasty, and the entrance to the Namdaemun Market. The oldest wooden structure in Seoul, it had originally been used to greet foreign emissaries, control access to the capital city, and keep Korean tigers from entering the city.

The Namdaemun Gate was destroyed by arson on February 10, 2008. Chae Jong-gi, 69, admitted to starting the fire.

The Cultural Heritage Administration of South Korea has projected that it will cost approximately $21 million to rebuild the gate. President Lee Myung-bak has proposed starting a private donation campaign to finance its restoration.

Fast Facts:

1. AKA: Sungnyemun, Gate of Exalted Ceremonies, Great South Gate
2. Located: Seoul, South Korea
3. Construction began: 1395
4. Completed: 1398
5. Latest renovation: 2005
6. Fire burned for 5 hours
7. Oldest wooden structure in Seoul
8. Designated country's #1 National Treasure in 1962
9. Estimated damage: $21 million

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