Seoul Myeongdong Cathedral

The Seoul Archdiocese Cathedral of Myeongdong is the birthplace of the first Korean Catholic community and is a representative Catholic holy site in Korea, housing the remains of martyr saints. It is located at 74 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeongdong 2-ga). It is the first large-scale Gothic-style Catholic cathedral built on the Korean Peninsula and the first parish church in Korea (a church where a priest resides and ministers). It was designated as a Historic Site of South Korea on November 22, 1977. It is a sacred site where the remains of martyrs such as Bishop Imbert, Father Maubant, and Father Chastan are enshrined in the underground chapel. On September 10, 1900, the remains of martyrs from the Byeongin Persecution, including Bishop Berneux, were transferred from Yongsan Seminary to the cathedral's underground tomb, but were later moved to their hometowns. In 1926, the remains of 79 martyrs from the Gihae and Byeongo Persecutions were enshrined in the underground tomb, and later an altar for the blessed was installed in the left corridor of the cathedral, along with icons of the 79 martyrs. During the war in 1950, the cathedral was occupied by the People's Army, and the remains of the martyrs enshrined in the underground tomb were damaged. Over time, it became recognized as a center of the democratization struggle during the military regime. In 1991, the deteriorated remains were repackaged, corroded lead coffins were newly made, and the remains were sealed and placed in stone coffins. These were then enshrined in a newly renovated chapel, and a stone tablet with an inscription was erected to mark the completion. The entrance to the tomb area was remodeled with a glass door to allow pilgrims to visit at any time. Mass and confession are held on weekdays and weekends. Non-believers can also participate, and during Christmas, a solemn atmosphere can be felt amidst the surrounding festive street decorations.