Korean Traditional Architecture

Korean traditional architecture developed across the Korean peninsula from prehistoric times through the Three Kingdoms period of the 1st century BC to 668 AD and the later Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, which ran from 918 to 1910. Buildings sit on raised stone subfoundations, carry gently curved tile roofs on post and beam wooden frames, and use a bracket system that grew more elaborate over time to support the roof's overhanging eaves, all shaped by an aesthetic that favors naturalism, simplicity and an avoidance of extremes influenced by Buddhism and Confucianism. The Mireuksaji stone pagoda from the Baekje kingdom, Bulguksa Temple with its Dabotap pagoda from the Silla period, the artificial cave shrine at Seokguram and Seoul's Namdaemun Gate, regarded as Korea's first national treasure, are leading examples. The tradition absorbed influence from China and other neighboring cultures while keeping features distinct to the Korean peninsula.