Gyeongbokgung Palace

5 days in Seoul, Korea-5/17-5/22/2023

Day 2:Gyeongbokgun Palace - 5/18/2023

Geunjeongjean Hall

Geungjeongjean Hall (the 2nd inner gate) is the main throne hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Originally built in 1395, Geunjeongjeon is now the largest and most formal hall at the palace. The name translate to “all affairs will be properly managed if Your Majesty demonstrates diligence.” Like many other buildings in Korea, the original hall was burnt down during the Japanese occupation in 1592. The building seen today dates back to 1867, during the reconstruction of the palace. It was at this location where the king held meetings, handled state affairs, and held receptions for foreign visitors and dignitaries. Grand celebrations, such as coronation ceremonies of kings were also held here.

In front of the hall extends a grand courtyard with three footpaths running through the center. On these footpaths, there are two rows of markers which bear the rank of a court official.

Four times a month, civil and military officials would line up at their designated marker while the king sat on his throne inside the hall. The officials would sit on cushions made of different animal skins such as tiger or leopard. All officials would dress in full uniform, including the lowest ranking officials.

Heungnyemun Gate

Heungnyemun Gate is the third inner gate into Gyeongbokgung Palace. The gate is located just past Gwanghwamun Gate, the main gate of the palace.

When riginally built in 1426, the gate was known as Hongnyemun. It was not renamed to Heungnyemun until 1867 when Gyeongbokgung Palace was rebuilt under the orders of Prince Regent Heungseon Daewongun.

When the Japanese built the General Government Building here in 1926, Heungnyemun was removed along with most of the other buildings and structures found at the palace.

Bettween 1995 and 1996, the General Government Building was dismantled and removed in an effort to remove any trace of the Japanese occupation.

In 2001, Heungnyemun Gate, and its surrounding cloisters were rebuilt and restored to its original specifications.

Hall way

Kids dressed in Hanbok resting...

Approching Heungnyemun Gate.

A lot of people are wearing Hanbok so it is really scenic.

This is a look back at Geungjeongjean Hall (the 2nd inner gate). We are in the middle between the 2nd and 3rd inner gate.

On the left is Geungjeongjean Hall (the 2nd inner gate) and if you look in the background you will see the 3rd inner gate.

On right is the 3rd inner gate.

Hoa sending greetings from the 3rd inner gate.

View of the 2nd inner gate (Heungnyermun) in the distance from the steps of the 3rd inner gate (Geunjeongmun).

You can also see modern buildings surrounding the palace.

The Joseon-Style Eojwa (the Phoenix Throne) with Irworobongdo (Landscape Painting of Five Peaks, A Sun and A Moon)

Closer look of the Throne. Here you can really the sun and the moon on the painting.

Sajeongjeon

Sajeiongjeon building used as the main executive office by the king during the Joseon Dynasty

The King carried out his executive duties and held meetings with top government officers here.

King Hoa deep in thoughts!

It is good to be the king!

Sujeongjeon

Sujeongjeon was constructed in 1867 and used by the cabinet of the Joseon Dynasty.

Me surrounded by beautiful people wearing Hanbok.

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion

Located on a peaceful pond, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion treats visitors with some of the most beautiful views at Gyeongbokgung Palace. The pavilion was once used for entertainment when important foreign visitors visited the palace.

The first Gyeonghoeru was constructed in 1412, the 12th year of the reign of King Taejong, but was burned down during the Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592. The present building was constructed in 1867 (the 4th year of the reign of King Gojong) on an artificial lake/pond.