Name: Changgyeonggung Palace
Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Telephone: 02-762-4868
Rating: 4.6

Complex of 4 grand traditional Korean palaces, shrines & gardens for guided & self guided tours.

Seoul's Historical Splendors: A Journey Through Dynasties and Heritage

Gyeongbokgung Palace

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Changgyeonggung Palace

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Changgyeonggung Palace was originally built in 1418 by King Taejong, but it was expanded in 1484 by King Sungjong.

Originally Built By

The palace was expanded to accommodate three important figures: Queen Jeonghui, King Sejong's wife; Queen Sohye, King Deokjong's wife; and Queen Ansun, King Yejong's wife.

Built for Three

Changgyeonggung Palace is connected to Changdeokgung Palace, and together they are referred to as the 'East Palace'.

Connected to Changdeokgung

The palace grounds feature a Western-style greenhouse, built in 1909, which was the first of its kind in Korea.

First Greenhouse

During the Japanese colonial period, the beautiful Chundangji Pond was turned into a rice paddy and a zoo. It has since been restored to its original state.

Rice Paddy Transformation

Changgyeonggung Palace, unlike its more formal counterparts, reveals a fascinating glimpse into the Joseon dynasty's domestic life. Originally built by King Sejong for his father, Taejong, it served as a residence for queens dowager and concubines, imbuing it with a uniquely feminine atmosphere. Its architecture reflects this, prioritizing comfort and practicality over rigid ceremonial grandeur. The palace grounds uniquely incorporate a modern greenhouse, constructed during the Japanese colonial period, a stark contrast that highlights the turbulent history of Korea. This greenhouse, a Western-style structure, housed rare and exotic plants, showcasing the changing botanical interests of the era. Furthermore, Changgyeonggung's layout deviates from the standard palace design, reflecting its initial purpose as a secondary palace and its later adaptation to accommodate royal family members. The intimate spaces and less imposing structures offer a more personal and relatable experience compared to the more imposing Gyeongbokgung.

Introduction

Changgyeonggung Palace, unlike other grand palaces in Seoul, carries a distinct aura as a sanctuary deeply intertwined with the lives of royal consorts. Initially built by King Sejong for his father, Taejong, it served as a residence for retired kings and their consorts, setting a precedent for its future role. The palace's architecture and gardens reflect the unique needs and preferences of these royal women. Structures like Tongmyeongjeon Hall, retaining its original Joseon-era form, whisper tales of the consorts who resided within its walls, their joys, sorrows, and political maneuverings subtly shaping court life. The serene Secret Garden, Biwon, offered a private escape for the consorts, a place for contemplation and respite from the palace's rigid protocols. Ongnyucheon, a picturesque stream within the Secret Garden, provided a venue for private gatherings and artistic pursuits, fostering a sense of community among the royal women. The presence of the Chundangji Pond, originally a rice paddy, later transformed into a pond, highlights the palace's evolution and adaptation to the changing needs and aesthetic sensibilities of the consorts. Furthermore, the relatively unadorned style of Changgyeonggung, compared to the more imposing Gyeongbokgung, suggests a focus on functionality and comfort, catering to the daily lives of the royal consorts and their attendants. This intimate connection to the lives of royal women distinguishes Changgyeonggung, offering a unique glimpse into their world within the grand Joseon dynasty.

Royal Consort's Sanctuary

Changgyeonggung Palace, initially constructed by King Sejong in 1418 for his father, King Taejong, embodies a unique facet of the Joseon Dynasty legacy: its role as a space for familial harmony and later, a site of profound royal adaptation. Unlike the primary palaces, Changgyeonggung was conceived to provide residential space for former kings and their consorts, solidifying filial piety as a core Joseon value. Its architectural layout reflects this purpose, prioritizing residential halls over strictly ceremonial spaces. During the Imjin War in the late 16th century, much of the palace was destroyed, and its subsequent reconstruction under Gwanghaegun in 1616 saw a shift in its function.

The palace became increasingly intertwined with political life, yet retained its essence as a haven for royal elders. Notably, King Yeongjo, known for his long and impactful reign, significantly altered the palace grounds, adding features that promoted both study and relaxation, further embedding the Confucian ideals of the dynasty. The tragic Rice Chest incident involving Prince Sado occurred within its walls, marking a dark chapter in Joseon history and forever linking Changgyeonggung to the complexities of royal power and familial duty. The Japanese colonial period saw the palace degraded into a park, a deliberate attempt to erase Joseon identity, but its survival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the dynasty and its profound influence on Korean culture. Today, Changgyeonggung serves as a poignant reminder of the Joseon Dynasty's intricate blend of familial values, political maneuvering, and cultural resilience.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Did You Know?

Originally Built By

Built for Three

Connected to Changdeokgung

First Greenhouse

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