The work on upgrade and beautification of the Queen Heo Memorial, dedicated to the legendary princess of Ayodhya who went to Korea, is likely to be completed in two years, a senior official of the South Korean embassy here said.
The foundation stone for the project in Ayodhya was laid by South Korean First Lady Kim Jung-sook during her visit to the holy town in November when she also attended Diwali festivities.
The memorial, located in the vicinity of Ram Katha Park and close to the Saryu ghats, is to built using Korean architectural elements and landscaping, including a traditional pavilion, and will cost about Rs 25 crore, the official, from the cultural wing of the Korean Embassy here, said.
“The design for the memorial has been proposed from the Korean side, and the local government will execute the project. It is expected to be completed in two years,” he told.
According to Korean legend, the Princess of Ayodhya (Princess Suriratna) went to Korea in 48 AD and married King Kim-Suro. A large number of Koreans trace their ancestry to this legendary princess, who is known as Queen Heo Hwang-ok.
In July, the two countries had signed an agreement regarding the Queen Suriratna Memorial Project to facilitate upgrade and expansion of the existing monument commemorating Princess Suriratna (Queen Hur Hwang-ok).
The Korean first lady had begun her Ayodhya tour by offering tribute at the Queen Heo Memorial.