Seoul(Jongno-gu)
, Insadong・Jongnon
Also known as Pagoda Park, Tapgol Park, located on the former site of Weongaksa Temple from the Joseon Era, is the first modern park to be built in Seoul. Weongaksa Temple was known as Heungboksa Temple during the Goryeo Dynasty, but was renamed when it was enlarged during the early years of the Joseon Era. However, it was destroyed during the reign of Yeonsangun and Jungjong due to the repression policy of Buddhism. Thereafter, a western park was built due to the proposal of an Englishman, John Mcleavy Brown, but no precise information on the reason and date can be found. The park contains several national treasures, including Wongaksaji Sipcheungseoktap and Weongaksabi, and Palgakjeong, where the Independence Proclamation was read; the independence movement relief plate; and the statue of Son Byeong-hee. The park is of great historical value and national spirit as it was the starting point of the March 1, 1919 Independence Protest.
