Uncover the Legacy of Sulla-gun in Jongno-gu

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Jongno-gu, centrally located in Seoul, boasts a rich historical legacy as the former capital for six centuries. Even after the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty and the relocation of the capital to Hanyang, Jongno-gu has consistently played a significant role in culture and administration.

Tradition Amid Modernity

Within its borders, Jongno-gu proudly houses four out of the Seoul’s five major palaces, namely Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung and Gyeonghuigung. Notably, Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as a distinctive landmark, once serving as the private residence of Emperor Gojong’s father, Daewongun, during the late Joseon Dynasty. Furthermore, Changdeokgung Palace boasts the most well-preserved architecture among the Joseon palaces and has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. This palace beautifully showcases the unique beauty of Korean architectural styles, setting it apart from palaces found in China and Japan.

Jongno-gu has evolved into a treasure trove of popular attractions that blend Korea’s rich heritage seamlessly with the modern era. From the elegance of hanok architecture to the artistic wonders housed at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art (SeMoCa) and the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA), it is a journey through time and creativity. As night falls, Jongno-gu’s enchanting evening vista, combined with the brisk flow of the Cheonggyecheon stream beneath the gleaming modern skyscrapers add to its allure.

Tradition Amid Modernity

Within its borders, Jongno-gu proudly houses four out of the Seoul’s five major palaces, namely Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung and Gyeonghuigung. Notably, Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as a distinctive landmark, once serving as the private residence of Emperor Gojong’s father, Daewongun, during the late Joseon Dynasty. Furthermore, Changdeokgung Palace boasts the most well-preserved architecture among the Joseon palaces and has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. This palace beautifully showcases the unique beauty of Korean architectural styles, setting it apart from palaces found in China and Japan.

Jongno-gu has evolved into a treasure trove of popular attractions that blend Korea’s rich heritage seamlessly with the modern era. From the elegance of hanok architecture to the artistic wonders housed at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art (SeMoCa) and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), it is a journey through time and creativity. As night falls, Jongno-gu’s enchanting evening vista, combined with the brisk flow of the Cheonggyecheon stream beneath the gleaming modern skyscrapers add to its allure.

Sulla-gun Experience Programme

Experience Your K-moment as Sulla-gun

Ever wondered what it was like to be a Sulla-gun, one of the street patrollers in ancient Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty? Now, you have the opportunity to rediscover the historical significance of Sulla-gun through an exclusive experience offered by Jongno-gu.

The Sulla-gun Experience Programme allows visitors to wear Sulla-gun attire at no cost and safeguard the Sulla-gil. Embark on a leisurely 2-hour walk along the routes of Dongsulla-gil and Seosulla-gil, as marked on the map. 

Embark on a leisurely 2-hour walk along the routes of Dongsulla-gil and Seosulla-gil, as marked on the map provided by Jongno-gu.

Have you heard of Sulla-gil?

Where it Began
Nature-Infused Tradition

Sulla-gil
Where the Joseon Dynasty's Guardians Patrolled

Have you heard of Sulla-gil, located near Jongmyo Shrine and Ikseon-dong?

 Sulla-gil is a historic pathway where the ‘Sulla-gun,’ responsible for maintaining public order during the Joseon Dynasty,  patrolled Jongmyo Shrine at night. These guardians played a pivotal role in ensuring the city’s safety throughout the day and night. Their daytime duties involved patrolling both inside and outside Seoul’s castle walls to safeguard against theft and fire. During the night, they implemented movement restrictions.

Today, Sulla-gil connects the esteemed landmarks of Jongmyo Shrine, Changdeokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace. This route, formerly known as the royal procession path Donhwamun-ro, has transformed into a vibrant hub for various industries, including jewellery, crafts, traditional Korean music and Hanbok fashion.

A Historic pathway back Joseon Dynasty

Seosulla-gil Stonewall Walkway

Situated to the west of Jongmyo Shrine, the 800-meter-long Seosulla-gil stonewall walkway has been steadily gaining popularity. Its name, a fusion of “seo” (west) and “sulla” (derived from Sullacheong, where Sulla-gun soldiers once patrolled Jongmyo Shrine), signifies its location to the west of Sullacheong during the Joseon dynasty. In that era, Jongmyo Shrine was positioned on the left, with Sajikdan (altar) on the right, based on the king’s first-person perspective facing south from the palace.

While the entrance may resemble a quaint urban alley, a fresh perspective unfolds as you venture further in. The walkway features trendy cafes and restaurants, with foliage extending over the walls to blend harmoniously with nature. You will also encounter several jewellery workshops, as this area was the center of the jewellery industry from the 1970s to the 1990s. Nearby buildings are limited to two stories to preserve the sanctity of Jongmyo Shrine’s walls, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the stonewall walkway.

Seosulla-gil stonewall walkway offers a tranquil escape in contrast to other bustling attractions of Seoul, making it a charming place ready for you to explore. 

Location: Seosulla-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Nearest Subway Station: Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 11

If you’re in Jongno-gu, be sure to stop by!

Both Sulla-gun and Sulla-gil are deeply rooted in historical narratives and have been enriched with contemporary resources. Jongno-gu is committed to reinterpreting this historical legacy within a modern context. As part of this commitment, we’ve introduced an innovative Stamp Tour exclusively for Sulla-gil, seamlessly combining historical tales with modern elements. We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join this unique K-journey, allowing you to uncover the past, embrace the present, and fully immerse in the abundant heritage of Sulla-gun. Don’t let this thrilling adventure pass you by – become a part of it!

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