The “Korean Bell of Friendship” monument is located in Los Angeles, California, more specifically at San Pedro at Angels Gate Park.
Description of the monument
The monument (some photos here) consists of a stone pavilion, built in traditional Korean style, inside which there is a large bronze bell.
To support the roof of the pavilion, finely decorated in traditional Korean style, and inside which the bell is contained, there are a total of 12 columns colored in red, while the capitals of the columns are of various bright colors, in particular green- red-blue, and equipped at the top with geometric-floral decorations, as well as the suspended ceiling of the structure.
Everything is located in a panoramic green area, from which the sea is visible.
History of the monument
The history of the “Korean Bell of Friendship” in Los Angeles dates back to 1976 when it was donated by the South Korean government to the USA to symbolize the friendship between the two countries.
Bell characteristics
The bronze bell of the monument was built following the model of an ancient Korean bell, called “Seongdeok Bell”, and at the time built by Gyeongdeok of Silla to honor his deceased father, King Seongdeok; you can find more information about this ancient bell on the dedicated English Wikipedia page.
The bell of the Korean Bell of Friendship monument is truly large, weighing more than seventeen tons; it is also finely decorated with a series of reliefs, including traditional Korean cultural elements and some references to the USA.
The ceremonial use of the monument
The monument became part of the cultural heritage of Los Angeles and its bell is made to ring several times during the year with a massive wooden beater, usually during symbolic days related to Korea or commemorative events.
Recommended insights
- Korean-language Wikipedia page of the monument
- English Wikipedia page of the monument
- Photos of the monument and location on the map