Tapgol Park, Seoul

Tapgol Park holds the distinction of being Seoul鈥檚 first modern public park, officially established in 1897 on the site of the former Wongaksa Buddhist Temple, which had existed since the Joseon Dynasty in the 15th century. Its transformation from temple grounds into an urban garden marked a milestone in Seoul鈥檚 civic planning and public space design.

The park鈥檚 centerpiece is the stunning Wongaksa Ten鈥慡tory Stone Pagoda, a 12-meter tall marble pagoda constructed in 1467, and designated as National Treasure No. 2 of South Korea. Visitors can also discover other historical fixtures like the Monument of Wongaksa鈥攁 1471 tortoise鈥慴ase stele adorned with a dragon motif鈥攁nd a series of bas鈥憆elief sculptures and memorials commemorating the March 1, 1919 Independence Movement, during which the Proclamation of Independence was first read at the park鈥檚 famed Palgakjeong octagonal pavilion.

Today, Tapgol Park offers tourists a peaceful retreat鈥攁 green oasis amidst bustling Jongno. With shaded walking paths and benches, it鈥檚 a tranquil place to recharge while absorbing layers of Korean history鈥攆rom the Joseon era and its Buddhist heritage to its role in the modern independence struggle.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Seoul. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "黑料吃瓜网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Tapgol Park
Sight Location: Seoul, South Korea (See walking tours in Seoul)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

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Walking Tours in Seoul, South Korea

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