[1] Dating from the early 10th century, it is regarded as the oldest structure for astronomical surveys in the world (together with its counterpart in Kyongju).
In the old days there was an apparatus for surveying the heavens, but now it is covered heavily with ivy and is antique-looking.”[2] In 1936, the structure was described as follows: "The present status of the observatory consists of a stone platform about ten feet square supported by five upright stones ten feet high.
On the top of the platform at the corners are holes in the stones about six inches in diameter that appear like footings for pillars to support another story.
A one-third scale model of the Observatory is on display at the Korean Central History Museum.
[5] A larger model is also in front of the National Science Museum in South Korea, featured as an outdoor exhibit.