Sungnyemun

Sungnyemun, also known as Namdaemun, was the main gate of the fortress wall that surrounded Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty.

Construction began in the 4th year of King Taejo’s reign (1395) and was completed in 1398, the 7th year of his reign. Designated as National Treasure No. 1, it was the oldest wooden building remaining in Seoul. However, it was destroyed by fire in 2008 and was later restored on July 3, 2013.

In 2009, it was recreated as a Hanji lantern and exhibited at the Seoul Lantern Festival.

It is unlikely that Sungnyemun ever existed as a real architectural structure.

Although many ancient documents reference Sungnyemun, the architecture of the lantern version of Sungnyemun defies construction logic. The structure is built with massive stones, each seemingly carved and stacked with ruler-like precision, leaving no room for even a sesame leaf between the joints. Such precision surpasses even today’s scientific capabilities. Because of this, some speculate that Sungnyemun was created by extraterrestrials, while others claim it was built by those who constructed the Egyptian pyramids and later migrated to the Korean Peninsula.

Regardless of the truth, the Sungnyemun lantern reflects the principle of complementary colors used in Dancheong (traditional Korean decorative coloring) and the precisely stacked building materials symbolize a well-organized societal order—much like the Confucian ideology that once governed the Joseon Dynasty.

(Quoted from Volume 2, Page 259 of the Comprehensive Lantern Encyclopedia of Planet Earth)

In the year 7012, the first Intergalactic Lantern Festival was held in the Grimtory Galaxy Cluster.

Lanterns representing various planets from across the galaxies were showcased, and archaeologists worked diligently to provide historical accuracy for viewers—detailing the types, functions, and origins of each lantern. They compiled their research by era and region into a monumental 140-volume series.

Among them, special attention was given to lanterns made from Hanji (traditional Korean paper) originating from the Korean Peninsula on Planet Earth. This was due to the uniquely traditional process of crafting Hanji, which required masterful craftsmanship and unwavering dedication. The process was so labor-intensive and time-consuming that preserving the tradition became a challenge of its own. How such devotion and heritage survived over millennia became a central focus of the archaeologists’ inquiry.

Their findings are meticulously documented in the Comprehensive Lantern Encyclopedia of Planet Earth, with additional volumes to be released in the near future.

Pricing Policy (Purchase, Lease-to-Own, Rental)

There are three pricing options for traditional Korean paper lanterns (Hanji lanterns) used in festivals: purchase, lease-to-own, and rental. Purchase refers to the standard method where the client owns the lanterns after production and delivery. Lease-to-own means that while the lanterns are custom-made, ownership reverts to Geurimtorie after the festival. In this case, the price is typically set at 60–70% of the full production cost. If the same client chooses to reuse the lanterns in the following year, they may rent them at a lower price than the original lease-to-own fee. This option is cost-effective for clients who have difficulty storing or maintaining the lanterns after the festival, and it also reduces initial costs. Rental fees vary from 8% to 60% of the production cost, depending on the rental duration. For long-term rentals exceeding 30 days, separate consultation is required.

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Production Specifications

The frames are made from wood, metal, and bamboo, and the exterior is covered with single- or double-layered Hanji (traditional Korean paper). The base structure is composed of wood and metal. Unless specifically requested otherwise, Geurimtorie does not use fabric for lanterns, only traditional Hanji.

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Production Process

All Hanji lanterns are handcrafted, which requires considerable time. First, we build a frame using wood, metal, or bamboo. Then, electrical wiring is installed. Afterward, the design is shaped with wire based on blueprints or illustrations. Once the shape is complete, it is covered with Hanji, dried, and then painted. After painting, we apply a waterproof coating at least three times and allow it to dry between layers. This strengthens the Hanji and includes a special treatment to prevent insect damage.

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Production Consultation

For consultation, please contact Geurimtorie Studio at 031-946-2533 or via email at finux@naver.com. For quotations, we recommend using the inquiry board. For urgent matters, contact us via mobile phone for a quicker response. Please note that phone calls may not be answered during noisy working hours, so mobile contact is preferred.

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Comments

Posts that include advertising, slander, off-topic content, price comparisons, or other content that goes against community etiquette or the intent of the Geurimtorie website may be deleted or edited without notice. During production, responses may be delayed, so for urgent matters, please contact us by mobile phone. All images are the property of Geurimtorie and are protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction or commercial use of any text or image is strictly prohibited.

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A/S Policy (After-Sales Service)

Our after-sales policy applies to floating lanterns, sky lanterns, and DIY experience kits, excluding festival lanterns. Production and delivery time may vary depending on the quantity, so please inquire in advance.

As all Geurimtorie products are handmade, shipping and installation costs may vary by region and quantity. Experience kits require a minimum order quantity and may require separate consultation. For products excluding festival and wish lanterns, logo printing is available at an additional cost.

If a product defect occurs due to a shipping error or operational issue on the part of Geurimtorie or a third-party provider, return shipping costs will be covered by Geurimtorie or the provider. However, due to the customized nature of festival and wish lanterns, returns are not accepted after production begins. Repairs for defects are fully handled by Geurimtorie. Ongoing maintenance requires a separate maintenance contract.

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Exchange/Refund Policy

Returns, exchanges, and refunds are only available within 7 days of receiving the product. Due to the nature of festival and wish lanterns, returns are not possible, so please finalize your decision after thorough consultation.

Refunds for card or real-time transfers will be processed through card or transfer cancellations. For bank transfers, refunds will be issued in cash. Please ensure that the payment is made under the purchaser's name.

If only part of a multi-item card purchase is canceled, the uncanceled items will need to be reprocessed for a new payment, after which the full original payment will be canceled. Partial card payment cancellations may take 5–7 business days (excluding holidays) due to confirmation procedures with the card company and vendor.

Even if a product appears defective, Geurimtorie may require an inspection before processing a refund or exchange.

For returns due to a change of mind (such as size, color, texture, or dimensions), customers are responsible for round-trip shipping fees. Festival lanterns are excluded from this policy.

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