Wonju, South Korea – The Gwangguksa Pagoda, a national treasure and one of Korea's most significant Buddhist pagodas, has been fully restored and returned to its original home at the Beopcheonsa Temple site in Wonju. The pagoda, which suffered extensive damage during Japan's colonial rule and the Korean War, has undergone a meticulous restoration process over the past few years.

Built in 1070 to honor the eminent Buddhist monk Gwangguksa Haerin, the pagoda is renowned for its exquisite carvings and intricate design. However, its turbulent history began during Japan's colonial rule when it was dismantled and transported to Japan. It was later returned to Korea but suffered further damage during the Korean War.

"After completing the conservation and restoration work on the Gwangguksa Pagoda in collaboration with Wonju City, we will be holding an unveiling ceremony and other commemorative events at the Beopcheonsa Temple site on November 12th," said the National Cultural Heritage Research Institute.

The pagoda's journey has been marked by numerous trials. It was repeatedly moved and damaged, eventually ending up at the National Palace Museum in Seoul. In 2016, due to severe damage and structural instability, the pagoda was transferred to the National Cultural Heritage Research Institute in Daejeon for a comprehensive restoration project.

The restoration process involved a meticulous examination of the pagoda's original design and materials. Experts from various fields worked together to recreate the pagoda's intricate carvings and ensure its structural integrity. The restored pagoda now stands on a special foundation designed to withstand earthquakes up to a magnitude of 7.

"The restoration of the Gwangguksa Pagoda is a model case of returning a cultural heritage to its original place," said the National Cultural Heritage Research Institute. "It was achieved through collaborative research in various fields, including the study of the pagoda's imagery, patterns, and the origin of the stones used for restoration."

The institute plans to publish a detailed final report on the conservation and restoration process next year.

The restoration of the Gwangguksa Pagoda is a significant achievement in Korea's cultural heritage preservation efforts. It marks the return of a national treasure to its rightful place and serves as a testament to the resilience of Korea's cultural heritage.