National Assembly Building of South Korea

Occupying a large site on Yeouido island in the Han River, this domed building has housed the unicameral legislature of South Korea since 1975. Twenty-four granite columns wrap its facade, said to represent the nation's provinces coming together in debate, while the shallow copper dome above the main chamber has weathered to a pale green. The surrounding grounds include lawns and a springtime cherry-blossom avenue. Visitors can tour the plenary chamber and a small exhibition on parliamentary history.