In between the crossroads of Central Road in Yanggu, Gangwon Province, South Korea stands a 17th Century Yi Dynasty replica sundial measuring a height of 7.70m, 4.73m in diameter, weighing up to 18tons of bronze, 2.3kg of 18K gold plating and 2kg of pure gold.

The “Angbu-Ilgu” monument, which is held aloft on four very artistically crafted legs, was adjudicated by Guinness World Records on 31st October 2009 as being the Most Valuable sundial in the world. The gold sundial carries with it, an estimated value of 811,690,000 South Korean Won, which is equivalent to ￡405,244.27 or USD$ 667,225.08.

Angbu-Ilgu literally means “upward kettle that catches the shadow of the sun” and is widely regarded as one of the very first public clock systems to be used in Korea.

This particular gold sundial was constructed by Nature Space Co. Ltd with an estimated number of 1440 people involved in the project of crafting and building. The project took 6 months between June and December 2008 to complete.

On site in Yanggu was official Guinness World Records adjudicator, Alex Iskandar Liew who presented the official certificate to the Chief of Yanggu County, Mr. Jeon Chang-Beom amidst the fanfare of a military band and live concert.

“We are very happy that Guinness World Records has recognized this achievement. This means a lot to the humble population of 23,000 people in Yanggu”, Mr. Jeon was quoted.