Salgoji Bridge, Seoul

This bridge, also known as Salgoji Bridge, served as a major route connecting Hanyang, the capital of the Joseon dynasty, with the south-eastern regions of the country. Construction began in the fifth month of 1420 (the second year of King Sejong), prompted by the frequent royal outings of Jeong Jong and King Taejong, but after King Taejong's death royal processions became rare and the bridge was left unfinished. Later, because the road was heavily used by ordinary people, the need to complete it was raised again, and work resumed in 1475 (the sixth year of King Seongjong) and was finished in 1483 (the fourteenth year of King Seongjong). Because crossing it felt like walking on flat ground, it was also known as "Jebangyo." It is the largest bridge built in the early Joseon period, constructed with a total of 64 stone piers. The piers were shaped like rhombuses (diamonds) to reduce resistance from the flowing water. In the 1920s, torrential rain in Seoul washed away part of the bridge, and it was repaired again in the 1970s, but concrete was added to the right-hand side during restoration, causing some loss of its original appearance.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Designation

Treasure · 보물