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SEOUL: South Koreans are mourning the loss of an iconic ancient landmark as the 14th century gate known as Namdaemun, or the Great South Gate collapsed after a massive fire.
Arson is believed to be behind the destruction of the country's first national treasure.
Many Koreans braved the winter cold to come out and have a last look at their national treasure.
Many wanted to make sure they had a picture of their beloved treasure.
A woman said: "When this collapsed, my heart collapsed too. I was up all night. The first thing that comes to people outside when we think of Seoul is Namsan and this Namdaemun gate."
A man in his twenties, said: "I have seen this ever since I was young. I could not believe the news when I heard it this morning. Seeing this, I feel bad. I am not old and so I am sure the older people feel worse."
More than 100 fire fighters battled the fire for five hours - but were unable to save the structure.
Police said they were investigating the cause of the fire.
Although no conclusion has been made, the police are not ruling out the possibility of arson.
Experts said it will take at least three years to fully restore the gate and it'll cost about US$21 million.
The wooden structure had served as the main entrance to the city when Seoul became the capital of Korea more than 600 years ago.
It was constructed in 1398, and rebuilt in 1447.
It had undergone several repairs since then - the latest was in 1961.
It was only in 2006 that the South Korean government opened the gate to the public for the first time in nearly a century. -CNA/vm
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