Jongno

Jongno or Jong-ro (Korean: 종로; lit. 'Bell Street') is a trunk road and one of the oldest major east–west thoroughfares in Seoul, South Korea. Jongno connects Gwanghwamun Plaza to Dongdaemun. The area surrounding Jongno is a part of Downtown Seoul and one of the most prominent cultural, historical, and financial areas. Many important landmarks are located along its length, including the Bigak pavilion at Sejongno, the Bosingak belfry (hence the street's name), Tapgol Park (Pagoda Park), the Jongmyo royal ancestral shrine, and the Dongdaemun (Great East Gate). Seoul Subway Line 1 passes under Jongno. The western end of Jongno is serviced by Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), and Jongno 3-ga Station is serviced by Subway Lines 1, 3, and 5. Because of the multitude of shops, stores, and groceries along the area, the word "Jongno" is often used in the Korean language to express "Town Square."