Namdaemun to Open to the Public in 2000

Namdaemun, literally the big south gate, designated national treasure No.1, will once again be open to the public after decades of inaccessability . The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced on November 23 that it will build an underground route to Namdaemun and enable the public access to the site.
The SMG explained that it will build 10 m long underground extension which will be connected to the existing roads. The SMG plans to receive approval from the Office of Cultural Properties (OCP) and begin construction in 1999 to be completed by the first half of 2000.
It expects that 1.1 billion won will be needed for the construction.
However, the SMG has yet to decide whether or not it will allow access inside Namdaemun to civilians.
It plans to negotiate on the conditions and boundaries with the OCP. Dr. Kim Hong Sik of Myongji University said, 'Until now, even scholars cannot approach and observe Namdaemun. It should be open to civilians if it can be adequately protected.'
The SMG plans to install iron-made shutters and only allow access during the day in order to protect this cultural relic.