Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Korea, but it was once the seat of power of the nation. It was completed in 1395 during the rule of King Taejo, the founder and first ruler of the Joseon dynasty. He rules from 1392 to 1398. King Taejo moved Korea’s capital from Kaesong, in current day North Korea, to Seoul, South Korea, and Byeongbokgung was the main and largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul..
Gyeongbokgung directly translates as “palace greatly blessed by Heaven.” It lies underneath Mount Bugaksan and Mount Namsan.
Hwangwonjeong Pavilion
Gyeongbokgung served as the home of the royal family and seat of government for two centuries before it was destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasion of 1592. It was then abandoned for 300 years. It was restored in 1867 by Prince Regent Heungseon during the reign of King Gojong. However, it was not long before most of the palace was dismantled or destroyed again by Japanese forces, this time during the 35 year occupation preceding World War II. In 1926, the Japanese Government Building was built in front of the Palace. The palace saw even more damage during the Korean War of 1950 to 1953.
The Japanese General Government Building behind the main gate prior to demolition
To add insult to injury, the Japanese General Government Building was built on palace grounds during the occupation. The building was demolished in 1995 due its controversy and to make space for palace restorations.
Only three buildings survived the destruction of the 19th and 20th centuries. Restoration work began in the 90s, and currently less than half of the palace has been restored. The palace is now home to the National Folk Museum of Korea and the National Palace Museum of Korea.
Today, Gyeongbokgung is one of the popular tourist destinations in the country. Tourists are encouraged to visit and wear traditional Hanboks to add to the richness of the historical setting.
Daily changing of the guard ceremony
Comments
Thank you very much for sharing this. I have never been to Korea, and that is why learning all these historical and cultural facts in fascinating. For example, I did not know before the fact that Gyeongbokgung served as the home of the royal family and seat of government for two centuries before it was destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasion of 1592.
It was really cool to read and learn about these historical buildings across Korea! I didn't know that Gyeongbokgung was abandoned for 300 hundred years, and how it was abused, but I'm glad it was restored. I've never seen it, I hope to see it with your given insight!