Work to restore and rebuild Korea’s first national treasure “Sungnyemun” has begun in earnest.

The 600-year-old gate, also known as Namdaemun, collapsed after it was set ablaze by an arsonist in February 2008.

The Cultural Heritage Administration held on Wednesday a groundbreaking ceremony and a traditional ritual to pray for the success of the rebuilding efforts.

The work began with the dismantlement of the gate tower on the second floor.

A traditional construction method will be employed to rebuild the national treasure and a blacksmith, who will produce traditional construction devices for the work, will be on-site.

Walls encircling the gate that were damaged during Japan’s colonial rule will also be repaired.

The restoration will be completed by late 2012.

People are able to visit the restoration site and observe the work if they register with the administration in advance.