Hundreds of Koreans have visited the site of the country's top cultural landmark Sungnyemun, a historic gate which collapsed under fire a week ago.

Masses of visitors placed wreaths in front of the gate. A resident of Masan, South Gyeongsang Province, visiting with her younger sister said seeing the scene in person was more devastating than on TV.

Offers have also poured in to help the gate's restoration. A Cultural Heritage Administration official said many people want to donate pine trees for the restoration, adding he hopes interest in preserving cultural assets remains alive.