There is a new set coming in the LEGO Architecture line; the #21016 LEGO Architecture Sungnyemun – recreating the famous South Korean landmark the Sungnyemun Gate, also known as Namdaemun. This is the first Asian landmark in the LEGO Architecture line. And a beautiful one!
Sungnyemun is a historic pagoda-style gateway located in the center of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. The gate was built in the 14th century and was once one of the three major gateways through Seoul’s city wall (since destroyed), and is now listed among the National Treasures of South Korea. Sungnyemun (Gate of Exalted Ceremonies) was known as Namdaemun (Great Southern Gate) during the Japanese occupation of South Korea. You can read more about Sungnyemun on Wikipedia.
Going back to the LEGO Architecture Sungnyemun, here are the details from the LEGO press-release:
Sungnyemun has stood in the heart of South Korean capital since 1398 as one of the most complete examples of Joseon Dynasty architecture. It is listed as the country’s foremost National Treasure.
“Sungnyemun survives as a symbolic marker of a lost place in time”, says the architect and designer of many of the LEGO models Adam Reed Tucker. In capturing the essence of Sungnyemun in LEGO bricks Adam looked at the aesthetics rather than engineering, especially the use of colors, patterns and materials that define the ‘spiritual DNA’ of a culture.
Construction of Sungnyemun started in 1396 and was completed two years later. Further alterations and renovations continued over the next 600 years. In 2008 the wooden structure was completely destroyed by fire and it is expected that the restoration – using traditional hand tools – will be complete at the end of 2012.
LEGO Architecture products feature well-known buildings, and the work of important architects. Aimed at inspiring future architects, engineers, designers and architecture-fans around the world, the range contains a booklet featuring step-by-step building instructions prefaced by history, information and photographs of each iconic building, its design origin, its architect and its architectural features.
The #21016 LEGO Sungnyemun will be launched officially at the Danish Pavilion during the EXPO 2012 exhibition held in Yeosu, South Korea. It will be available for purchase from June 1 in LEGO brand retail stores, LEGOLAND Stores and at the Online LEGO Shop.
The product is designed for ages 12+ and includes a booklet with facts and history about Sungnyemun. Recommended retail price is $34.99 in the US and €34.99 in most European countries.
Interestingly, OXFORD (another building-toy company) recreated the Sungnyemun some time back in a larger scale. Also a really nice set. You can read a full review at Eurobricks: OXFORD Sungnyemun Review
You can als0 read more about OXFORD here: OXFORD – Overview. If you are interested in the OXFORD Sungnyemun, it is available on eBay.
Let me know what you think of the new LEGO Architecture set! Do you collect them? Or are you planning to? Also, if you would like to learn more about the LEGO Architecture line check here:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – Gandalf Arrives:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – Shelob Attacks:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – Uruk-hai Army: 
LEGO Lord of the Rings – Attack on Weathertop:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – The Mines of Moria:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – The Battle of Helm’s Deep:
LEGO Lord of the Rings – The Orc Forge:
