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Arch of Reunification

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Arch of Reunification (North Korea)

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The Arch of Reunification was a monumental arch located at the southern entrance of Pyongyang, symbolizing the desire for Korean reunification. Completed in 2001, the structure featured two women in traditional dress holding a map of a unified Korea together. Each figure represented one side of the divided peninsula, North and South, joining hands to lift the nation. The arch spanned the 'Reunification Highway', which connects Pyongyang to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The monument was based on the Three-Point Charter for National Reunification formulated by Kim Il-sung. Its base was decorated with commemorative plaques sent by supporters and organizations from around the world. In January 2024, the monument was demolished following orders from the North Korean leadership, signaling a drastic shift in the official policy regarding South Korea. Despite its removal, the arch remains a historically significant symbol of the inter-Korean reconciliation efforts that characterized the early 21st century.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-3391622242419134-3
Rain mm9182354769828123697464717

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The monument was demolished in 2024 and is no longer accessible on-site. Historical footage and reports are the only way to see it.
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Typical hours
Since the structure no longer exists, there are no opening hours. Visitors can always learn through virtual tours or archives.
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Photography
Photography is now only possible from historical images or models. Current photos of the site show only an empty area.
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Time needed
Visiting the former site takes little time as nothing remains. For background research, allow about 30 minutes.
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Combine with
Nearby is the Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, offering contrast to the destroyed reunification arch. Kim Il-sung Square is also within walking distance.
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Getting there
The site is at the southern entrance of Pyongyang, reachable by public transport or on a guided tour. Foreigners typically need a travel permit.
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Insider tip
Check current travel regulations for North Korea in advance. Since the structure is gone, look up historical documentary footage.

Geography

Coordinates
38.96600, 125.69800

Facts

  • The monument was officially dedicated in 2001.
  • The two female figures stood at a height of 30 meters.
  • The arch spanned a total width of 61.5 meters over the highway.
  • It was located on the main road leading from Pyongyang to the DMZ.
  • The arch was completely demolished in January 2024 by state order.
  • The map held by the women represented a unified Korea without internal borders.

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Mount RyongakMount Ryongak10 km · SWExplore →
Pyongyang Textile MillPyongyang Textile Mill11 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Arch of Reunification (5)

Lee In-mo Memorial🏺 historical

A monument dedicated to Lee In-mo, a North Korean correspondent, known for its political symbolism.

Rangnang Museum🏛 museum

This museum displays archaeological finds from the ancient Rangnang era of the Pyongyang region.

Sunhwagang Bridge📍 landmark

A significant road bridge spanning the Sunhwa River in southern Pyongyang.

United Front Monument🏺 historical

This monument commemorates political unification and the work of the National United Front.

Gwangmun Market🎭 culture

A local marketplace located near the Arch of Reunification in southern Pyongyang.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Arch of Reunification represent?
It depicts two women in traditional dress holding a map of a unified Korea.
Where exactly is this monument located?
It spans the 'Reunification Highway' leading from Pyongyang to Kaesong.
Is it allowed to stop at the arch for photos?
Yes, tour buses often stop there for a brief photo opportunity.
When was the arch erected?
The monument was completed in 2001.
How large is the structure?
The arch is about 30 meters high and 61.5 meters wide.
Arch of Reunification: where is it located?
Arch of Reunification is located in North Korea.
Arch of Reunification: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lee In-mo Memorial, Rangnang Museum, Sunhwagang Bridge.
Arch of Reunification: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Arch of Reunification: why is it worth visiting?
The Arch of Reunification was a monumental arch located at the southern entrance of Pyongyang, symbolizing the desire for Korean reunification.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Pyongyang — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Pyongyang
Pyongyang is the capital and political center of North Korea, located on the Taedong River.

History & landmarks

Ryugyong Hotel — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Ryugyong Hotel
An unfinished 105-story skyscraper in Pyongyang.
Pyongyang TV Tower — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Pyongyang TV Tower
A 150-meter-tall free-standing concrete tower with an observation deck and a panoramic restaurant.
Rungrado 1st of May Stadium — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Rungrado 1st of May Stadium
The largest stadium in the world, with an official capacity of 114,000.
Kumsusan Palace of the Sun — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Kumsusan Palace of the Sun
Serves as the mausoleum for Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, the former leaders of North Korea.

Nature

Taedong River — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Taedong River
The second-longest river in North Korea, flowing through the capital city of Pyongyang.
🗺️
Manphung Lake
An artificial lake northeast of Pyongyang, used for recreation and fishing.

More places

Mangyongdae Funfair — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Mangyongdae Funfair
An amusement park in the Mangyongdae District of Pyongyang, offering rides and games for visitors.
Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum
A museum in Pyongyang dedicated to the Korean War.
Taedong Gate — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Taedong Gate
The Taedong Gate (Taedongmun) is the surviving east gate of the ancient walled city of Pyongyang, sitting majestically on the banks of th…
Ryongwang Pavilion — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Ryongwang Pavilion
The Ryongwang Pavilion is located right next to the Taedong Gate in Pyongyang and was built in the 12th century for defense as well as a …
Grand Monument on Mansu Hill — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Grand Monument on Mansu Hill
A complex of monuments in Pyongyang, the central part of which are two 22-meter high bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il.
Chilsong Gate — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Chilsong Gate
The Chilsong Gate (Gate of the Seven Stars) is the north gate of the ancient inner fortification of Pyongyang and is located on the edge …
Ulmil Pavilion (Ulmildae) — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Ulmil Pavilion (Ulmildae)
The Ulmil Pavilion (Ulmildae) stands majestically on Moran Hill in the center of Pyongyang and originally dates back to the 6th century.
Juche Tower — Arch of Reunification (North Korea)
Juche Tower
A monument in Pyongyang, symbolizing the Juche ideology.