Yeoju Godalsaji Twin Lion Stone Lantern Returns to Its Original Site After Half a Century

A Treasure Relocated Four Times

Relocation to Be Decided by Cultural Heritage Administration, Museum, and Yeoju City

A cultural heritage from the early Goryeo period, which had wandered away from its original site, is returning home after half a century.

Front view of the Yeoju Godal Temple Site Twin Lion Stone Lantern / National Heritage Administration.

The National Heritage Administration, National Museum of Korea, and Yeoju City announced on September 9 that the Treasure, "Yeoju Godal Temple Site Twin Lion Stone Lantern," will be relocated to its original location at the Godal Temple site in Yeoju.

This artifact features two crouching lion sculptures. It is distinctly different from other twin lion stone lanterns, which usually depict standing lions. Recognized for its unique Goryeo artistry, it was designated as a Treasure in 1963.

This homecoming comes after four previous relocations from its original place. The stone lantern was discovered toppled over at the Godal Temple site, then stored by village residents, moved to the backyard of Dongwon Wedding Hall in Jongno-gu in 1958, placed in front of Gyeonghoeru at Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1959, and has been housed at the National Museum of Korea since 2003.

After receiving approval last month from the Architectural Cultural Heritage Subcommittee of the National Heritage Committee for relocation, the relevant organizations have begun preparations. The plan is to reorganize the Godal Temple site and complete conservation treatment at the National Museum of Korea before moving the stone lantern.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.