Unhyeongung Palace

Unhyeongung Palace

Unhyeongung Palace is located in Unni-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. It was the residence of Heungseon Daewongun (1820–1898), the father of King Gojong (the 26th king of Joseon). Though not an actual palace, it served as a dwelling for members of the royal family, hence the name "palace." After becoming king, Gojong extensively renovated and expanded the site, elevating it to the status of a palace. From then on, Unhyeongung boasted four grand gates, exuding a majestic presence rivaling that of actual palaces. However, during the Japanese colonial period and the Korean War, the site suffered significant damage, leaving only a small portion of its former scale.

To the right of the main gate of Unhyeongung is a long row of tiled houses called Sujiksa, where the staff responsible for managing, guarding, and handling miscellaneous affairs of the palace lived. Beyond Sujiksa lies a gate, and upon entering, you’ll find a building bearing the plaque “Noandang,” which primarily served as the living quarters of Daewongun, and it is said that he also passed away here. Past Noandang is the largest structure in Unhyeongung and its central hall—Naejeongjeon (also known as Old Music Hall), where King Gojong and Queen Min held their royal wedding ceremony in 1866. To the left of Naejeongjeon is the inner quarters known as Irodang (also called Second Old Hall), the residence of the wife of the Daegun (official title), designed in a square layout that made access from the outside quite difficult.

Unhyeongung hosts events every April and October to recreate the royal wedding ceremony of King Gojong and Queen Min. In addition, various activities related to court culture are held here, attracting numerous visitors who come to experience traditional Korean royal culture.

Unhyeongung

Must-visit reason: One of Seoul’s oldest historic sites

Continent: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region: Korea[Korea]

Province/State: Seoul Special City [Seoul Special City]

City: Jongno-gu [Jongno-gu]