Goryeo, a devoutly Buddhist state, also inherited the stone pagoda tradition.
As this wooden pagoda was destroyed in a fire during the Mongol invasion, only records are able to be used to provide analysis on the structure.
The wooden pagoda is able to utilize carving techniques of the wood to develop symmetric and smooth surfaces to the roofs separating each story.
This creates similar layers as seen in the roof of the wooden pagoda but utilizes an entirely different technique.
Apart from its political and religious significance of Buddhism, this pagoda also became an important symbol of gender inequalities during the time.
[14] Early in the Silla and Paekche kingdoms, the pagoda initially served as a site for the preservation of the body parts of the cremation and reaching of Nirvana of the Buddha Sakyamuni.
[15] However, over time, the purpose of pagodas eventually shifted to more accessible and became sacred sites for worshiping Buddhism in general rather than just the Buddha.
[16] Stone railings were also added with various sculpted designs depicting various themes and symbols from buddhism.
One of the main reasons is due to controversy surrounding the number of floors on this pagoda, as it ranges from 2-4 depending on the viewer.
[16] The four flights of stairs may have played a significant role in the worshiping of the Buddha and Buddhism at the time, as it may have enabled religious figures or people at the time to enter and place important objects at the center of the pagoda for worship.