- Address: 45 Saemunan-ro, Sajik-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 2-724-0274
- Website: cgcm.go.kr
The capital of South Korea - Seoul - a very popular tourist destination. A huge metropolis offers you not only the most modern entertainment, but also carefully preserves the objects of history and architecture. When going to Seoul, we recommend you to find time and be sure to visit Kyonghigun.
History of the palace
The building of Kyonhigun Palace belongs to the structures of the Joseon Dynasty and is one of the "Five Great Palaces". For a long time it was a secondary residence of kings, where the whole family came in case of complex and unforeseen situations. It is also called the "Western Palace" (Sogwol) because of its geographical location in Seoul.
The whole complex was built in 1617-1623. on a very difficult mountainous terrain. In addition to the main building, the palace included about 100 small and large buildings. In 1908, when the Japanese invasion took place, many buildings were destroyed to the ground, and the Japanese school was founded in the main palace.
Partial reconstruction of the complex was made only after South Korea gained independence. Excavations of the entire perimeter were carried out, and due to impressive funding from the capital city government, about 35% of all Kyonghigun facilities were restored. Currently, in one of the restored buildings is located Shilla Hotel, in the other - the University of Dongguk (Dongu).
What to see in the palace?
The most beautiful objects of the palace are the "Kyonghwar", a lotus pond and "Hyangwonjeong", where the museum of the Korean nation is now defined. These structures have survived to our days since the Joseon Dynasty. And near the gate is the National Museum of South Korea . All the palace rooms are available for tourists.
The first of the Kyonghigun complex you will get to know the main gate of Honunnemun (Heunghwamun). Further, climbing the stairs, you immediately get to the most important building, from where to the main ceremonial hall of Sungjeongjeon, where all official events were held.
Visitors also have access to the Geumcheongyo Bridge, one of the oldest elements in the Kyonghigong Palace, exactly until the moment when it was blown up by the Japanese. You can walk around the palace park along the cobweb of paths and avenues. The entire complex is a very valuable object and historical heritage, which in South Korea it is customary to treat very respectfully.
How to get to the Kyonghigun Palace?
The most convenient way to get to the palace complex is by metro :
- Line No. 5, Exit No. 2 at Gwanghwamun Station;
- line No. 3 outlet No. 5 at Gyeongbokgung Station.
You can also walk to the palace on foot, if you stay nearby or take a taxi, which will save you a lot of time. Entrance for all is free. Working hours are from 9-18 except Monday.