Gyeongbokgung Palace - Seoul's Historic Royal Park

Historical Background

Gyeongbokgung Palace, established in 1395 during the reign of King Taejo, was the main palace of the Joseon dynasty. Its name, "Gyeongbok," signifies prosperity and good fortune for the new dynasty. The palace is situated with Bugaksan Mountain as its backdrop and features Gwanghwamun Gate as its main entrance.

Cultural Significance

The palace was the site where Hunminjeongeum, the Korean writing system, was created and distributed. Despite its cultural importance, Gyeongbokgung was destroyed during the 1592 Japanese invasion and remained in ruins for 270 years until its restoration in 1867 under King Gojong.

Structures and Key Events

During the restoration, new buildings such as Geoncheonggung Palace, Taewonjeon Hall, and Jibokjae were added. Geoncheonggung's Okhoru Pavilion witnessed the tragic assassination of Empress Myeongseong in 1895.

Destruction and Restoration

The Korea–Japan Treaty of 1910 led to systematic destruction of Gyeongbokgung, with many buildings demolished for the 1915 Joseon Industrial Exhibition. The palace was further overshadowed by the Governor-General of Joseon building in 1926. A large-scale restoration began in the 1990s, culminating in the demolition of the Governor-General building in 1996. Key areas, including Heungnyemun Gate, the royal living quarters, Geoncheonggung Palace, and Gwanghwamun Gate, were restored and remain today.