Pyongyang Bell (Pyongyang)

 bell, pavilion, interesting place

(평양종각/平壤鐘閣)
North Korean National Treasure #23.
The Pyongyang Bell is one of the city symbols of Pyongyang. The original bell, cast in 1714, was located in the north command post (Pukjangdae) of Pyongyang Castle. It was, however, destroyed in a fire. The current bell was cast from June to September of 1726 in the courtyard of Yongmyong Temple using a mix of 35 different metals, including iron and copper. It was moved to its current location near Taedong Gate shortly after. The outside of the bell is decorated with images of Bodhisattvas, the Four Heavenly Kings, trigrams, and clouds designs. The handle of the bell is made in the shape of two entwined dragons.

This bell was used until the Japanese occupation to announce the opening and closing of the city gates at 4 in the morning and 10 at night. It was also rang at auspicious events, such as during the New Year's celebration, and to warn the citizens of fires and attack by foreign troops. The bell's sound was considered one of unique sounds of Pyongyang.
The bell was struck on midnight shortly after liberation to proclaim the freedom of Korea.