Samchunggak Building to Be Preserved

The old Samchunggak building, which was almost torn down because it was not designated a cultural asset, may be saved by being designated as a cultural facility for urban planning. Samchunggak was a restaurant once famous for its beautiful hostesses, as well as and high-ranking officials and rich businessmen who frequented the place.

The City of Seoul will notify the public of its decision between May 22 and June 3, and then settle the matter for good in July after having the matter considered by the urban planning committee.

The city is planning to acquire Samchunggak by offering the owners of the building and site an exchange for land of equal value to the Samchunggak grounds. One city official said, "Though Samchunggak failed to be appointed a cultural asset, it has been judged worth preserving, and we are looking into holding traditional performances there, thus designating it a cultural facility."

Once designated a cultural facility, it can be used only for cultural purposes, such as a museum, exhibition hall, or theater.

Whether or not Hwaum Construction, the owner of Samchunggak, will accept the city's proposal is not yet clear.

by Kim Young-hun