Overview
The Independence Gate in Seodaemun Independence Park is a monument built by demolishing the English Gate that received Chinese envoys to pledge independence after the Gabo Reform. The Gabo Reform was a reform movement that promoted both domestic and institutional reforms. However, due to interference from foreign powers, success was not achieved, and the country did not achieve self-sovereignty. In response, the people, determined not to allow any interference for the sake of national independence and freedom, tore down the English and silver gates that had received Chinese envoys and erected the Independence Gate in its place. At the center of this granite-stacked gate is a rainbow-shaped red glow gate, and inside on the left is a stone staircase leading to the summit. At the summit, stone railings surround the area, and in the center of the Hongyemun gate, the Imat stone is engraved with the plum blossom pattern, a symbol of the Joseon Dynasty. Above and above it, in Hangul and Chinese characters, are the words 'Independence Gate' and the Taegeukgi are engraved on both sides. Right nearby is Seodaemun Prison, where you can take a historical journey through Independence Gate and reflect on your longing for democracy and free will.
