GYEONGHUIGUNG PALACE
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Fifth among the royal palaces of Seoul, less popular than his colleagues, he exudes an impressive serenity.
This palace is the fifth of the royal palaces in Seoul, the smallest and least visited of all. Built in 1616 by King Gwanghaegun on the site of the former residence of King Wonjong, the Gyeonghuigung, which literally means 'Palace of Serene Harmony', was used as an auxiliary palace, especially in emergencies. It took its present name in 1760, but became known to foreigners living in Seoul as the 'Palace of the Mulberry Trees' because of their abundance on this site. By the early 19th century, the palace had grown to a considerable size with more than 100 buildings. Many of its buildings were destroyed, including the Yungbokjeon (bedrooms), by fire in 1829. The others were moved when the Japanese built the Gyeongseong High School in 1910. They took their place at Dongguk University, Gwangunsa and Bakmunsa temples and Sajik Park. Following the liberation of the country in 1946, Seoul High School was built on the site before leaving in 1978. In the 1990s, major works were undertaken to restore the palace to its lost glory, although only 30% of its original surface area has been restored. A 100m long stone terrace, the only original element in the complex, and its staircase carved with a dragon are visible. The palace site hosts several events throughout the year, including taekwondo performances and various culinary festivals.
