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Gyeonghuigung Palace

Jongno-gu · Palaces & history

Gyeonghuigung Palace
Photo: travel oriented, CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

One of the palaces used by Joseon kings, it can now be explored through Sungjeongjeon Hall and its courtyard.

Why choose this place

For a closer look at palace proportions: the courtyard before Sungjeongjeon frames the balance of roofs and columns.

Make the most of your visit

From the center of the courtyard, look at the balance of the roof and columns. This is a quiet place to appreciate old architecture near the city center.

Stories from the record

Story 01

Another palace in the west

Construction began in 1617 under Gwanghaegun. Known as the Western Palace, it was an important late-Joseon royal complex, once larger than the remains suggest. Do not mistake today's restored precinct for the whole former palace.

Story 02

A tradition about royal energy

The museum recounts a tradition that royal energy was believed to inhabit the site, formerly Prince Jeongwon's home. This illustrates ideas about power and geomancy, not proof that supernatural energy existed in the ground.

Story 03

Finding a lost palace again

Colonial-era school construction damaged much of the palace. Seoul began excavation and restoration in 1987, opening the restored main-hall area in 2002. Today's precinct represents both historical research and the recovery of a lost place.

Sources

Before you go

Opening hours and closing days can change, so check the official information before visiting.

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