Potongmun, City gate in Chong-guyok district of Pyongyang, North Korea.
Potongmun is a city gate in Pyongyang with a two-story pavilion built on a granite foundation that marks the western entrance to the inner city. The structure shows how traditional Korean architecture was designed to serve as both a practical barrier and a symbolic gateway.
The gate was originally built in the sixth century during the Koguryo period and underwent major reconstruction in 1473. It was extensively restored again in 1955 following damage from conflict.
The National Treasure designation number 3 of North Korea reflects the gate's position in the preservation of traditional Korean architecture.
The gate can be visited but requires official guided tours for international visitors to see it. Access depends on current travel conditions and official permits.
The Korean name means "normal gate" even though the structure holds the status of a nationally recognized monument. This plain naming shows how such buildings were viewed in everyday life rather than as grand landmarks.
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