Tapgol Park Octagonal Pavilion
99 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Jongno 2-ga)
Open in mapAbout this place
The Tapgol Park Octagonal Pavilion, located in Tapgol Park in Jongno 2-ga, is a traditional pavilion designated as a Seoul Tangible Cultural Heritage on September 19, 1989. Built in 1897 upon the recommendation of British advisor J. McLeavy Brown when Tapgol Park (Seoul's first modern park) was established, it is believed to have been constructed in 1902 as a venue for military band performances commemorating the 40th year of King Gojong's reign. From Sundays only, classical music concerts drew crowds and from July 1913 it was opened to the public on weekdays as well. The octagonal building features outer and inner columns supporting a double-eaved octagonal roof. On March 1, 1919, students and citizens gathered before this pavilion to read the Declaration of Independence aloud and march in protest.