Seoul Sajikdan, Neo-Confucian altar in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Seoul Sajikdan consists of two square altars named Sadan and Jikdan, each measuring 7.65 meters on all sides and surrounded by traditional walls and gates. The complex preserves its original spatial layout and traditional architectural features that remain visible and intact today.

Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, this shrine served as a ceremonial ground for offerings to earth and grain deities. It remained active until 1911, functioning as a central location for state and religious rituals during this time span.

The square layout of both altars reflects traditional Korean belief that earth manifests in square forms while heaven takes round shapes. This geometric distinction shapes how the sacred space is visually organized and experienced by visitors walking through.

The altar platform is a protected cultural property, so visitors cannot enter or walk on it; the altars and stone walls are viewed from the red-spiked gate (hongsalmun) or from beyond the low stone wall. The site sits west of Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul, near Sajik Park and the Sajik Tunnel, and is served by buses and subway lines in the area.

The two altars held separate ritual functions: Sadan in the east handled ceremonies for the earth deity, while Jikdan in the west served grain deity rituals. This functional division is visible in the spatial layout and reflects how carefully religious ceremonies were structured.