Although Sungnyemun has been destroyed by fire, it will likely keep its status as Korea's number one national treasure.

The Cultural Properties Committee said Tuesday that officials of the related subcommittees made the decision given the wooden structure's historic significance.

Committee Chairman Ahn Hui-joon said officials believed the landmark's historic value had not been reduced despite the damage to the wooden part of the structure.

The Cultural Properties Committee is under the Cultural Heritage Administration.