Explore the Hidden Side of Seoul

Seoul, South Korea, is a city of contrast

On one hand, Seoul is an ultra-modern metropolis. Its citizens are surrounded by the latest advances in technology and architecture.

Yet, if you look beneath the towering skyscrapers, a traditional South Korea is waiting to be rediscovered.

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Tradition on Every Corner in Seoul

It’s really quite amazing how many traditional Korean temples, pagodas, gates, walls, statues and other buildings still exist beneath towers of glass and steel.

For instance, Seoul’s Myeong-Dong Cathedral (below) was first constructed in 1894. Today, it is surrounded by skyscrapers, construction and busy streets. But, it’s not going anywhere!

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Seoul City Hall vs the Seoul Metropolitan Library

Nowhere is this distinction between old and new more prominent than in the City Hall plaza. In 2006, the then-80 year old Seoul Metropolitan Library barely escaped the wrecking ball.

Today, the traditional building stands in stark contrast to the wall-to-wall windows of the Seoul City Hall, which towers behind it.

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How the Seoul Metropolitan Library Was Saved

“When it was built in 1926, the building served as the headquarters of the governor-general of Korea. Additional wings were constructed in 1962 and 1986; both of which were demolished in 2006 to make way for a new city hall.

While the construction plans called for the original building to be razed and replaced with a new design, support for its preservation put a halt to demolition.

Eventually, a compromise was reached; preserving the front building facing Seoul Plaza and allowing construction of a modern building behind the old one.

Following the competition for a new city hall, the building was reconstructed and reopened as library. It currently houses more than 200,000 books.”

Source: Wikipedia

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Umbrellas in Seoul

In the subway station next to City Hall, I found this beautiful display of traditional Korean umbrellas beneath the city’s massive skyline.

I’m also proud to say that this photograph was featured in an issue of GQ Korea.

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Sungnyemun: a 14th Century Gate in Seoul

The final photograph is of Sungnyemun Gate, which is located in the heart of Seoul.

As one of the eight original gates of the ancient Fortress Wall of Seoul, there is no way it can ever be torn down.

Thank goodness; because the structure is absolutely stunning and a lasting testament to the tradition that still flows through this bustling city.