Bosingak Pavilion, Seoul
Bosingak Pavilion is a historic bell pavilion that gave its name to the surrounding district of Jongno, which translates to 鈥淏ell Street鈥� in reference to the pavilion鈥檚 original function. Originally constructed in 1396 during the Joseon Dynasty, Bosingak has been rebuilt multiple times across centuries, most recently in 1979. The original 1468 bronze bell is now housed at the National Museum of Korea, while a faithful modern replica takes its place today.
This pavilion once served as Seoul鈥檚 public clock: during the Joseon era, the bell was struck to signal the opening of the city gates at 4 am and closing at 10 pm, with 33 tolls marking each event. It also functioned as a fire and danger alarm for residents. Today, the bell is rung only on special occasions, most notably at midnight on New Year鈥檚 Eve, when crowds gather to hear its powerful 33 strikes ushering in the next year in a cherished city-wide tradition.
Beyond New Year鈥檚 Eve, visitors can occasionally experience a bell ringing at noon鈥攁n echo of its former role in keeping time for the entire city. While entry into the pavilion interior is generally restricted, the ornate two-tiered wooden structure鈥攚ith elegant dancheong painted patterns and a raised platform鈥攐ffers a contrast set against modern high-rises.
This pavilion once served as Seoul鈥檚 public clock: during the Joseon era, the bell was struck to signal the opening of the city gates at 4 am and closing at 10 pm, with 33 tolls marking each event. It also functioned as a fire and danger alarm for residents. Today, the bell is rung only on special occasions, most notably at midnight on New Year鈥檚 Eve, when crowds gather to hear its powerful 33 strikes ushering in the next year in a cherished city-wide tradition.
Beyond New Year鈥檚 Eve, visitors can occasionally experience a bell ringing at noon鈥攁n echo of its former role in keeping time for the entire city. While entry into the pavilion interior is generally restricted, the ornate two-tiered wooden structure鈥攚ith elegant dancheong painted patterns and a raised platform鈥攐ffers a contrast set against modern high-rises.
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Bosingak Pavilion on Map
Sight Name: Bosingak Pavilion
Sight Location: Seoul, South Korea (See walking tours in Seoul)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Seoul, South Korea (See walking tours in Seoul)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
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