Gwanghwamun to Consider Bilingual Signage with Hangul

By Yoon Juhye Posted : July 7, 2026, 12:04 Updated : July 7, 2026, 12:04

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety announced on July 7 that they will hold a public forum to gather opinions on whether to include Hangul alongside Chinese characters on the Gwanghwamun sign. The event is scheduled for the 26th at Yonsei University's Baekyangnuri.


Approximately 200 citizens, along with officials from relevant organizations and experts, will participate in the forum. After expert presentations and panel discussions, attendees will break into small groups to share their views. Participants will consider questions such as whether Gwanghwamun should maintain its traditional appearance or evolve into a national symbol that incorporates Hangul.


Citizens interested in attending the forum can apply from July 7 to 14 through the websites of the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of the Interior, or via 'Communication Innovation 24.' The forum will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the 26th.


Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young stated, “Gwanghwamun is a cultural heritage and a symbolic space of the nation, while Hangul represents a valuable asset that showcases South Korea's cultural pride. This year marks the 100th anniversary of 'Gagya Day,' the origin of Hangul Day, and I hope this forum will be a meaningful opportunity to hear a broader range of public opinions and foster consensus.”





* This article has been translated by AI.

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