Bosingak Belfry Site

Bosingak Belfry is also known as Jonggak (Bell Pavilion); it took its name when Emperor Gojong bestowed the name "Bosingak" on it in the 32nd year of his reign (1895). First built in the fourth year of King Taejo (1395), it burned down four times and was rebuilt eight times. The present building was constructed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in August 1979, a two-storey pavilion of five kan from east to west and five kan from north to south. The treasure known as the "Old Bosingak Bronze Bell" was cast in the 14th year of King Sejo of Joseon (1468) and was originally kept at Wongaksa Temple; after the temple was abandoned, it was moved to the present site of Bosingak in the 11th year of King Gwanghaegun (1619). The Bosingak bell was struck 33 times at 4 a.m. and 28 times at 7 p.m., marking the time of day and signalling the opening and closing of the city gates. Over the long years cracks developed in the body of the bell so that it could no longer be struck, and a bell pavilion was built within Gyeongbokgung Palace to house and preserve it. The bell now hanging in Bosingak was newly cast in 1985 with contributions donated by the public, and was first rung on Liberation Day that year.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Jongno-gu, Seoul

Designation

Provincial Monument · 시도기념물