Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun)

One of the Eight Gates of Seoul, the Heunginjimun, or better known as the Dongdaemun Gate is an imposing landmark in Seoul and is best known for Korea's largest market which surrounds it.

The gate was constructed first in 1398 and has since been renovated many times due to damages. It is also has an outer wall, the Ongseong, which was strategically important as it added a great deal of resistance from enemies. The architecture of the Gate reflects of the late Josean period, with front and side compartments and a decorated bracket system. The Dongdaemun Market in the area around the gate today is actually Korea's largest shopping centre. It has 26 shopping malls, 30,000 speciality shops and 50,000 manufacturers. It covers every single type of store you can possibly think of. You can well imagine how much like heaven this place will be if you love to shop. The choices are endless! And the best part is, it is open through the day and the night, closing for only 5 hours between 05:00 AM - 10:00 AM.