Join us as we explore the history of Tapgol Park, a significant landmark in Seoul. From its origins as a temple site to its role in pivotal events like the March 1st Movement, Tapgol Park is woven into the fabric of Korea’s modern history. Learn about its transformation, struggles with urban development, and what the future holds for this beloved public space.
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Produced by Joe McPherson and Shawn Morrissey
Music by Soraksan
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Tapgol Park: A Historic Heartbeat of Seoul
Tapgol Park, located in the bustling district of Jongno, is one of Seoul’s most historically significant spaces. From its origins as Wongaksa Temple in the Goryeo Dynasty to its transformation into a modern park that served as a rallying point for Korea’s independence movements, Tapgol Park holds deep cultural and historical importance. It stands as a symbol of Korea’s resilience, reflecting both its struggles and triumphs over centuries of change.
Origins and Transformation Through the Dynasties
Tapgol Park’s roots trace back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) when it was originally home to Heungboksa Temple. However, it became more widely known in the Joseon Dynasty, particularly after King Sejo ordered the construction of Wongaksa Temple in 1467. The temple was built to honor the Confucian teachings of the era, becoming a center for both spiritual and academic life.
The Wongaksa Temple housed the famous Ten-story Stone Pagoda, a striking relic that still stands today in the park. The pagoda is significant not only for its architectural beauty but also as a symbol of Korea’s Buddhist heritage. The name “Tapgol” itself is derived from the word “Tap” (탑), which means pagoda, and “Gol” (골), meaning valley. The park’s name reflects the presence of the pagoda, though some say it’s also a reference to the shape of the pagoda resembling a long bone (Tapgol meaning “bone valley”). The pagoda has withstood centuries of turmoil, including destruction during the reign of King Yeonsangun in the late 15th century.
Despite the temple’s decline and demolition under King Jungjong’s reign in 1514, the pagoda remained, a silent witness to Korea’s history. For much of the 19th century, the site was largely abandoned, a vacant lot surrounded by houses until the late 19th century when Tapgol Park began to take its modern shape.
A New Beginning: The Birth of Korea’s First Modern Park
In 1897, Tapgol Park began its transformation into the first modern park in Korea, thanks to the efforts of Lee Chae-yeon, the mayor of Hanseongbu (Seoul). Lee was appointed by Emperor Gojong to spearhead the Hanseong renovation project, which aimed to modernize the capital city. A British advisor, J.M. Brown, played a key role in designing the park’s transformation into a green space for public use. The creation of Tapgol Park marked the beginning of Korea’s first modern urban park, though it’s important to note that Incheon’s Jayu Park, built nine years earlier in 1888, holds the title of Korea’s first park overall. However, Jayu Park was built by a foreigner, so Tapgol Park can be considered the first modern park created by Koreans for Koreans.
Japanese Colonial Period and the Independence Movement
Tapgol Park’s significance continued to grow during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945). The park became a site of political resistance and nationalist sentiment. On March 1, 1919, it became the birthplace of the March 1st Movement, a pivotal event in Korea’s struggle for independence. On that day, hundreds of Koreans gathered at Tapgol Park to hear the Gimi Declaration of Independence read by Jeong Jae-yong. This act of defiance against the Japanese colonial government would become one of the most important moments in modern Korean history.
The March 1st Movement spread across the nation, inspiring protests and uprisings in cities and towns throughout Korea. Tapgol Park thus holds the honor of being the birthplace of the movement that galvanized the Korean people in their fight for independence.
Post-Independence: Political Unrest and the 1960 April 19th Revolution
After Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945, Tapgol Park remained an important site of political and social movements. In 1960, it became central to the April 19th Revolution, a student-led uprising against the government of President Syngman Rhee. The protests were sparked by widespread corruption and political repression. On April 26, 1960, enraged citizens gathered at Tapgol Park and tore down a statue of President Rhee, a powerful symbolic act that led to Rhee’s resignation later that day. The event marked a turning point in Korean politics and was a pivotal moment in the country’s democratization.
Tapgol Park Under Park Chung-hee’s Rule
During the authoritarian regime of President Park Chung-hee (1961–1979), Tapgol Park underwent significant urban transformation. The government sought to modernize Seoul, and part of this effort involved the construction of the Pagoda Arcade in 1966, which surrounded the park. The arcade was built using private capital, reportedly over 130 million won, and was intended as a commercial space to modernize the area.
However, the construction of the Pagoda Arcade sparked criticism from the public, particularly from citizens who viewed it as an attempt by the Park government to diminish Tapgol Park’s historical and cultural significance. Many saw the arcade as an encroachment on the park’s role as a symbol of Korea’s independence movement. The Seoul Metropolitan Government eventually filed a lawsuit against the arcade merchants, and after a long legal battle, the arcade was demolished in 1983.
Tapgol Park Today: A Place for Reflection and Renewal
In the decades following its restoration as a free park in May 1988, Tapgol Park has continued to serve as a gathering place for Seoul’s citizens. In the 1990s, the park became a popular spot for elderly citizens, offering a peaceful space for relaxation and socialization. However, in recent years, it has faced challenges due to the growing number of homeless people and the issues of public hygiene, such as complaints about unsanitary conditions due to a lack of public restrooms. Local authorities have attempted to address these concerns, but the park continues to be a focal point for debates on urban space, public health, and the rights of the homeless population.
The park also remains a symbol of Korea’s rich cultural and political history. The Ten-story Stone Pagoda continues to stand proudly in Tapgol Park, representing the resilience of Korean history and culture despite centuries of political turmoil. The park’s historical significance, its role in Korea’s struggle for independence, and its ongoing transformation make it a key landmark in the story of modern Seoul.
Future Plans for Tapgol Park
Looking to the future, Tapgol Park is slated for further renovations aimed at restoring it to its original form as it was during the late 19th century. Archaeological excavations will focus on uncovering the authenticity of the park’s early layout, ensuring that the park’s historical legacy is preserved for future generations. Additionally, there are plans to create more spaces that cater to the elderly, who have long found solace and community in the park.
Tapgol Park, once a site of spiritual reflection, has transformed into a historical monument, a center of political resistance, and a symbol of Seoul’s modern urban identity. Its past and future are interwoven, reflecting the dynamic changes that have shaped Korea and continue to shape the city of Seoul.
As the city grows and changes, Tapgol Park remains a constant, reminding us of the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the Korean people throughout history.
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