Tapgol (Pagoda) Park
Located on the former site of the Joseon Dynasty-era Weongaksa (Weongak Temple), Tapgol is the first modern park to be built in the city. The temple itself was enlarged during the Goryeo Dynasty, but was destroyed during the reigns of Yeonsangun and Jungjong when Buddhism was being repressed in the country. The site still contains the Wongaksaji Sipcheongseoktap (a 10-level stone tower from the temple), Weongaksabi, and a statue of Son Byeong-hee. The park is where the Korean independence movement of 1919 started, but recently it has become a haven for Seoul's senior citizens. You'll see old men passing the time or playing baduk (the Korean version of "go"), while aged prostitutes try to tempt them with their carnal wares and energy-drink bottles.
Located on the former site of the Joseon Dynasty-era Weongaksa (Weongak Temple), Tapgol is the first modern park to be built in the city. The temple itself was enlarged during the Goryeo Dynasty, but was destroyed during the reigns of Yeonsangun and Jungjong when Buddhism was being repressed in the country. The site still contains the Wongaksaji Sipcheongseoktap (a 10-level stone tower from the temple), Weongaksabi, and a statue of Son Byeong-hee. The park is where the Korean independence movement of 1919 started, but recently it has become a haven for Seoul's senior citizens. You'll see old men passing the time or playing baduk (the Korean version of "go"), while aged prostitutes try to tempt them with their carnal wares and energy-drink bottles.
Details
Bookstore
Available as paperback
and as e-book.
