Gyeongbokgung Palace

Site details

In 1392, Taejo Yi Seong-gye founded the Joseon Dynasty, and in 1394, he moved the capital from Gaegyeong to Hanyang (present-day Seoul). The following year, in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first and primary royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, was completed. Located at the foot of Mount Bukaksan to the north of the city, Gyeongbokgung was built on a site considered an auspicious location according to geomantic principles (pungsu-jiri). Following the traditional layout of ancient capital cities, Jongmyo Shrine was placed to the left of the palace, and the Sajik Altar to the right. The main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun, was originally called Sajungmun (四正門), but it was renamed Gwanghwamun in 1425, during the 7th year of King Sejong's reign. Inside this grand and imposing gate, which symbolizes the authority of the royal family, are buildings where significant state events were held and where the king conducted his official duties. One of the most iconic locations in Gyeongbokgung Palace is Geunjeongjeon Hall. As the largest building within the palace, Geunjeongjeon was the site where significant ceremonies were held, serving as a symbol of the royal family and the heart of Gyeongbokgung. Toward the rear of the palace are the living quarters and resting areas for the king and queen. On the western side of the palace, there is a pond with Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which was used as a venue for banquets. Gyeonghoeru is not only architecturally stunning but also renowned for its picturesque setting, making it one of the most popular spots within the palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was burned down during the Imjin War in 1592, was rebuilt in 1867 under the leadership of Heungseon Daewongun during the reign of King Gojong. The reconstructed Gyeongbokgung was even larger in scale than the original. However, most of the palace's buildings, except for the main halls and pavilions, were dismantled during the Japanese colonial period. In recent years, extensive restoration efforts have been undertaken to restore Gyeongbokgung to its original form. Despite the loss of many structures, Gyeongbokgung remains an important historical site, especially as it is the primary palace located on its original site. Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeongbokgung Palace: Geunjeongjeon Hall is the central building of Gyeongbokgung, the primary palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It served as the venue where officials offered New Year's greetings to the king, where state ceremonies were conducted, and where foreign envoys were received. Several kings of early Joseon also held their coronation ceremonies here. The name "Geunjeong" means that all affairs of the state are well-governed when managed with diligence, reflecting the hall's significance in royal and state functions. Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, Gyeongbokgung Palace: Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is located on a pond to the northwest of Geunjeongjeon Hall. It was used as a venue for banquets when the nation celebrated joyous occasions or when receiving foreign envoys. The original Gyeonghoeru, built when Gyeongbokgung was first constructed, was smaller in scale. However, the pavilion was significantly enlarged when the pond was expanded. Although it was destroyed by fire during the Imjin War, leaving only its stone pillars standing, Gyeonghoeru was rebuilt in 1867 during the fourth year of King Gojong's reign, as part of the larger reconstruction of Gyeongbokgung Palace. * The Changing of the Guard ceremony, symbolizing the royal guard culture of the Joseon Dynasty, is conducted twice daily at Gwanghwamun Gate. This ceremony, which has been held since 2002, is a prominent traditional cultural event representing the royal guard practices of the Joseon era. The ceremony is meticulously reconstructed based on historical records, specifically from the first year of King Yejong’s reign in 1469, as documented in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty. The event focuses on accurately recreating the attire, weapons, and overall appearance of early Joseon military personnel, offering a vivid portrayal of the period’s royal guard.