Geoncheonggung Opened to the Public for the First Time in Six Years

Geoncheonggung Opened to the Public : August 15 – September 18, 2023

From August 15 to September 18, 2023, the interior spaces of Gyeongcheonggung, where Gojong and Empress Myeongseong lived and where Empress Myeongseong was tragically killed, will be open to the public.

• Admission : Free admission, no reservation required (You have to have admission fee to Gyeongbokgung Palace; 3,000 KRW)
• Hours : 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Tuesday Off
• Location : Naver Link

What is Geoncheonggung (건청궁)?

Located deep in the northern part of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Geoncheonggung was the residence of Gojong of the Korean Empire and Empress Myeongseong during the last days of the Joseon Dynasty. It is uniquely built in the style of a Joseon patriarch’s house.

What is special about Geoncheonggung (건천궁)?

Built in 1873, after Gyeongbokgung Palace was rebuilt, Geoncheonggung was characterized by the fact that, unlike the other pavilions, it was built in the style of the homes of the general noblemen.

It is located in the deepest part of the palace, but it has great historical significance. Some call it “the saddest and most beautiful place in Joseon”.

What was the purpose of Geoncheonggung (건천궁)?

It was used as a living space for Gojong and Empress Myeongseong, and was an important place where many of Joseon’s policies were decided, and in 1887, it was the first place in Korea to generate electricity and light up.

It was also the site of the Eulmi Incident, where Empress Myeongseong was killed by Japanese soldiers.