Founded in 1395 as the Joseon Dynasty’s main palace, Gyeongbokgung anchored Seoul’s royal life before destruction in the Imjin War and colonial dismantling. From late‑19th‑century repairs to 1990s‑present reconstructions, the complex regains halls, gates, and pavilions. Today, museums, guard ceremonies, and lighting reconnect the public to Korea’s courtly past.
Sited with geomantic regard to Bugaksan and city axes, the palace organized throne halls, courts, and residential quarters across a vast grid of cloisters and gardens.
Fire and neglect after 1592 erased much; colonial works displaced gates and halls. Modern programs document, relocate, and rebuild with traditional joinery and tiles.
Museums, ceremonies, and hanbok visits enliven the precinct. Timber conservation, roof maintenance, and drainage upgrades protect restored fabric amid heavy visitation.
