Korea's National Treasure #1

(Seoul, Korea) Yesterday, Sungnyemun (Namdaemun) gate, Korea's National Treasure #1, caught fire and was largely destroyed.

It was originally constructed in 1396 and somehow survived through many centuries and many wars -- until now.

Some suspect arson.

Robert Koehler of The Marmot's Hole is in Seoul and on the story.

Great photos (before and after the fire) of the gate, a Korean national icon.


[Update 02/15/08]

Arson confirmed. A 70-year-old man named Chae admitted to burning down the gate because of a property dispute. Interestingly, Chae also admitted to contemplating a terrorist attack on public transportation for the same reason.

Well, now the gate is destroyed, still the property is disputed and Chae is in jail. Boy! He showed them.

More.