On the Day of Hangeul, a civic group staged a protest in front of the main government complex in downtown Seoul, demanding to replace the signboard of Gwanghwamun, which is currently written in Chinese to Hangeul.
The group, “Citizens who wish to place a Hangeul signboard for Gwanghwamun,” held a press conference Saturday and demanded the Seoul government replace the signboard, currently written in Chinese characters into Hangeul -- the vernacular Korean alphabet writing system.
Gwanghwamun is the main gate of Gyeongbok Palace.
“It’s a shame and a big mistake for the government to take down the signboard of Gwanghwamun, which was written in Korean and used for over 40 years previously,” the statement read.
The Seoul government recently renovated the national landmark, but used a signboard written in Chinese characters.
“We are going to continue to talk to the government on this matter and also hold discussion sessions to gather more public opinion on this issue,” the statement read.
Gwanghwamun was first built in 1395, the fourth year of King Taejo of the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910). It was destroyed during a Japanese invasion in the late 16th century and reconstructed in the reign of King Gojong in 1865.
The signboard decorated with flamboyant dancheong and Chinese characters reading ``Gwanghwamun’’ with a strong stroke on a white backdrop, was also added during the restoration.