NARASINETWORK.COM - Changdeokgung Palace is one of Korea’s main royal palaces, with a history spanning over six centuries. The structure is a key example of Joseon Dynasty architecture and design, reflecting the era’s political priorities and cultural practices.
In the early period of the Joseon Dynasty, the capital alternated between Hanyang (modern-day Seoul) and Kaeseong (modern-day North Korea). In 1405, King Taejong moved the capital back to Hanyang and ordered the construction of a new palace. He considered Gyeongbukgung Palace to be unlucky, which led to the development of a replacement site.
The new palace was named Changdeokgung and built on a 58-hectare hilly plot. A large garden was established at the rear of the palace, designed according to feng shui principles. The main buildings were completed in 1405, with additional structures added and the complex expanded throughout the fifteenth century.
During the Imjin War, Changdeokgung Palace was destroyed by fire. King Seonjo started reconstruction work from 1607 to 1610, making it the first palace to be rebuilt after the conflict. Following restoration, it served as the royal residence for 258 years.
In the 1990s, a restoration project was carried out to return the palace to its original state. The work preserved the site’s historical features and architectural integrity. In 1997, Changdeokgung Palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its cultural importance.
Changdeokgung Palace is located at 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 율곡로 99). The site is open to visitors and remains an important landmark for both locals and international tourists exploring Korea’s royal heritage.
