What are the Capital Fortifications of Hanyang?

The Capital Fortifications of Hanyang is a complex of fortress structures constructed to defend Hanyang (한양), the capital of the Joseon Dy nasty. It comprise three integrated components: Hanyangdoseong (City Wall), Bukhansanseong (Shelter Fortress), and Tangchundaeseong (Connecting Fortress). These three fortifications are organically interconnected to form a comprehensive capital defence system.

• Hanyangdoseong
  (City Wall)An urban fortification encircling the capital
• Bukhansanseong
  (Shelter Fortress)A refuge fortress designed to accommodate the royal family and citizens during emergencies, enabling long-term defensive operations
• Tangchundaeseong
  (Connecting Fortress)A connecting fortress linking the two fortifications above, protecting evacuation routes during wartime

The World Heritage Inscription Initiative: Progress and Historical Significance

The inscription of the Capital Fortifications of Hanyang as a World Heritage site has been advanced through domestic and international procedures in a phased approach.
The World Heritage inscription of the Capital Fortifications of Hanyang is expected to serve as an opportunity to introduce to the international community the originality and excellence of the Joseon Dynasty's capital defence system, as well as the unique value of fortress heritage that combines site selection utilizing natural topography, the Pogoksik-type construction tradition, and an innovative defence strategy integrating comprehensive civilian evacuation and staged defence tactics.

Inscription Initiative Progress Timeline

1. 2012

   1. November

      Inscription on UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List

2. 2021

   1. November

      March Formation of a consultative body to promote a joint World Heritage inscription.

3. 2022

   1. December

      Selected as the World Heritage priority inscription list
      [Property name : The Capital City Wall and Mountain Fortresses of the Joseon Dynasty : Hanyangdoseong, Bukhansanseong, and Tangchundaeseong] (domestic process)

4. 2023

   1. January

      Updated on the World Heritage Centre Tentative List
      [Property name : The Capital Fortifications of Hanyang : Hanyangdoseong (Capital City Wall), Bukhansanseong (Mountain Fortress), and Tangchundaeseong (Defense Wall)]

   2. April

      Selected as a candidate for World Heritage inscription application

   3. September

      Pre-assessment Request submitted to the World Heritage Centre (WHC)

5. 2025

   1. July 31

      Final selection by the Korea Heritage Service as inscription application target

   2. September 30

      Draft Dossier submitted to the World Heritage Centre

6. 2026

   1. Before February 1

      Official Dossier submission

   2. September ~ October

      ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites) on-site technical mission expected