Conditional Approval Granted After Review of Restoration Plans
Addressing Structural Defects and Restoring Original Form
The "Five-Story Stone Pagoda at Cheongnyangsa Temple Site, Gongju" and the "Seven-Story Stone Pagoda at Cheongnyangsa Temple Site, Gongju," also known as the "Brother and Sister Pagodas" or "Sibling Pagodas," will undergo restoration work this year. According to the National Heritage Administration on May 7, the Cultural Heritage Committee conditionally approved the restoration plans for these two pagodas, which are designated treasures, during its meeting last month. Detailed plans and drawings will be prepared, and the construction is expected to be ordered around August.
Although these pagodas are believed to have been constructed during the Goryeo period, they prominently feature Baekje-style architecture. The Five-Story Stone Pagoda exhibits a style that can also be seen in the National Treasure "Five-Story Stone Pagoda at Jeongnimsa Temple Site, Buyeo" and the Treasure "Five-Story Stone Pagoda at Seongbuk-ri, Seocheon." The Seven-Story Stone Pagoda resembles the style of the National Treasure "Stone Pagoda at Mireuksa Temple Site, Iksan."
The current pagodas were rebuilt in 1961. After being toppled by looting in 1944, they underwent reconstruction. However, there have been ongoing calls for restoration and maintenance for many years. According to the "2022 Regular Survey of State-Designated Architectural Heritage" report by the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, the Five-Story Stone Pagoda was rated as 'dangerous' in terms of safety during a 2003 survey. In both the 2016 and 2021 surveys, it received an 'E' grade, indicating a need for restoration and maintenance.
The National Heritage Administration and Gongju City plan to dismantle and restore the pagodas to address structural defects, while also recovering their original forms through historical research. Restoration and dismantling plans will be determined based on glass plate materials believed to have been photographed in 1917.
Cheongnyangsa Temple Site Seven-Story Stone Pagoda and Five-Story Stone Pagoda Glass Plate Materials
The glass plate materials were created by Japanese researcher Yatsui Seiichi during his investigation of the pagodas. Compared to their current appearance, it is assumed that the base stone (Jitaeseok, the stone foundation laid for the structure) of the Five-Story Stone Pagoda has changed. It is also believed that a significant portion of the Seven-Story Stone Pagoda's components have been altered. An official stated, "We plan to determine how to restore the pagodas to their original appearance through expert consultation and review."
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