Heunginjimun Gate
The old city's eastern gate is also known as Dongdaemun. Its curved outer wall, or ongseong, helped defend the entrance.
Why choose this place
For understanding how city gates defended Seoul: the curved outer wall makes the gate’s protective design visible.
Make the most of your visit
Look beyond the gate to the curve of its walls. Stay on pedestrian paths near the busy roads.
Stories from the record
The gate behind Dongdaemun's name
This is the capital's eastern main gate. The surviving gatehouse was rebuilt in 1869 under Gojong, showing late-Joseon architecture. An ancient site does not mean every part survives from its original construction.
A wall in front of a gate
The semicircular outer wall, or ongseong, made direct enemy access more difficult. This distinctive defense sets the gate apart among Seoul's gates. An overhead view makes its relationship to the entrance particularly clear.
Look beneath the roof
The stone base supports the gatehouse while the arched passage carried people and goods. Set amid modern roads and commerce, the gate invites you to imagine how an entrance to the city became the center of a busy district.
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Before you go
Opening hours and closing days can change, so check the official information before visiting.