Reconstructing Bulguksa was a tricky challenge - with most of its 80 buildings destroyed by fire and overrun by Mongol and Japanese invader and local robbers, much of the planning ( between 1969 and 1973) for rebuilding this historical temple depended on excavations as reference points. Historical literature was another vital source of information and comparisons with other buildings which belonged to the same period were made as well. There's also a tug-of-war between the desire to replicate the experience of the past and the need to preserve the relics for the future.
So here are three compromises made in the reconstruction of Bulguksa:
First, as Kim Bong-Gon, Director-General for the National Institute of Cultural Heritage pointed out, "Although the existing stone structues in Bulguksa belong to the Unified Shilla Period, ( structures like) Museoljeon, Gwaneumjeon and the corridors were reconstructed in accordance with the style of the Joseon Dynasty".
A firm decision was made as well to limit the reconstruction to the bridge staircases in the facade and exclude the original pond that was under the bridge staircases.
Finally, to ensure that National Treasures No .22 and 23 remained in good condition, the bridge staircases have been cordoned off and tourists can only gain access to the main temple grounds by a side entrance.
Conscientious tourists who want to reduce their carbon footprint may console themselves by enjoying the reconstruction of Bulguksa with cyberview tours here. ( Scroll down after the jump till you see the pic below and click on the red arrows). Happy armchair travelling!
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