2 Best Sights in Seoul, South Korea

Also known as Dongdaemun Gate (Great Eastern Gate), this massive, elaborate structure is one of the eight gates that protected the outer wall of Seoul Fortress during the Joseon Dynasty. Originally built in 1396, the towering two-story hipped roof features the distinctive curved edges of East Asian architecture. The gate fell into disrepair and was rebuilt in 1869, and in 1963 was designated a National Treasure by the Korean government.

One of the four main gates that made up the Fortress Wall of Seoul, Sungyemun Gate (also called Namdaemun Gate) is a designated Korean treasure. It was originally built in 1396 and renovated several times, boasting the title of "the oldest wooden structure in Seoul" for decades. However, a civilian lit it on fire in 2008, and much of it was closed to the public until 2013. It's a great place to stop by in all its reconstructed splendor, and the extra security detail makes your visit feel safe.