The Foundry of Joseon-Dynasty Arsenal inside the Korea Banking Institute exudes a strong sense of modernization. The brick walls and double roof create a uniquely distinctive atmosphere.

Let me explain about the Joseon-Dynasty Arsenal. It started from the Tongni-Kimu-Amun in 1880, which was a special office set up to deal with domestic and international matters after the country opened up. Tongni-Kimu-Amun had 12 departments, and one of them, focused on weapons, handled machinery and military equipment tasks. Modernization aimed to boost national prosperity and defense, so these weapon-related tasks held significant importance.

To accomplish this aim, a substantial mission known as the Yeongseonsa was sent to the Qing Dynasty in 1881. Yet, due to the lack of cooperation from the Qing Dynasty and the disparity in knowledge, substantial achievements were not attained.

Two years later, in 1883, the Joseon-Dynasty Arsenal, tasked with weapon manufacturing, was established in the former Office of Gunpowder Weaons. Within the Joseon-Dynasty Arsenal, the Foundry was constructed - a factory specifically for casting weapons. While Chinese technicians contributed to its construction, the structure also bears elements of Korean architecture, indicating the involvement of Korean carpenters.

The Foundry was set up with the aim of creating a new rifle to replace the matchlock. However, hindered by the Qing Dynasty's lack of cooperation and financial difficulties in Joseon, the focus shifted toward repairing firearms. Despite this shift, the Foundry stood as a symbol of Joseon's modernization during that period.
Looking back, I've come to realize that modernization wasn't simply about emulating foreign nations. It encompassed the need for a robust military, which demanded the capability to manufacture and handle weapons. This called for societal shifts in governance, nurturing skilled weapon craftsmen, and, crucially, unwavering leadership from administrative or political figures. Unfortunately, during my era, despite abundant ideas, we lacked the necessary political continuity to implement them effectively.

Given the time and social latitude to learn from our mistakes and forge ahead, we might have accomplished more. It's regrettable, yet comforting, to see the legacy showing our efforts for modernization.

I learned later that the Foundry was initially perceived as nothing more than a storage facility. It's intriguing, considering how distinct warehouses and factories are.

Now, onto our last stop on 'The Path to Enlightenment': Bukchon Hanok Village.