1898 Gwangjang Pharmacy[Tax Refund Shop]

The Seoul Archdiocese Cathedral of Myeongdong is the birthplace of the first Korean Catholic community and a representative holy site of Korean Catholicism, housing the remains of martyr saints. It is located at 74 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeongdong 2-ga). It is the first large-scale Gothic-style Catholic cathedral built on the Korean Peninsula and the first parish church in Korea (a church where a priest resides and ministers). It was designated as a Historic Site of South Korea on November 22, 1977. It is a sacred site where the remains of martyrs such as Bishop Imbert, Father Maubant, and Father Chastan are enshrined in the underground chapel. On September 10, 1900, the remains of martyrs from the Byeongin Persecution, including Bishop Berneux, were transferred from Yongsan Seminary to the cathedral's underground tomb, but were later moved to their original locations. In 1926, the remains of 79 martyrs from the Gihae and Byeongo Persecutions were enshrined in the underground tomb, and later a Blessed Altar was installed in the left corridor of the cathedral with icons of the 79 martyrs. During the war in 1950, the cathedral was occupied by the People's Army, and the remains of the martyrs enshrined in the underground tomb were damaged. Through the military regime era, it was also recognized as a center for democratization struggles. In 1991, the deteriorated remains were repackaged, new corroded lead coffins were made, and the remains were sealed and placed in stone coffins, which were then enshrined in a newly renovated chapel with a stone tablet inscribed with epitaphs. The entrance to the tomb area was remodeled with glass doors to allow pilgrims to visit at any time. Mass and confession services are held on weekdays and weekends. Non-believers can also participate, and during Christmas, a devout atmosphere can be felt amidst the surrounding splendid street decorations.