Beyond the bustling city, a serene resting place awaits. Here lies the tomb of Queen Inwon at Myeongneung. Queen Inwon was King Sukjong’s third wife. Born in 1687 she became queen in 1702.
Myeongneung tomb is part of the Seooreung Royal Tombs. Seooreung holds five royal tombs. It also has three Myo tombs and two Won tombs. This royal site is second in size only to the Donggureung Tomb Cluster.
King Sukjong had a tumultuous reign. Political factions fiercely competed for power. Yet, he strengthened royal authority. He also improved social systems. He married three times. Queen Ingyeong was his first wife. Queen Inhyeon was his second. Queen Inwon was his third. King Sukjong shares a twin tomb with Queen Inhyeon. Queen Inwon rests on an adjacent hill.
Myeongneung offers an expansive view. A long path leads to the T-shaped shrine. You can ascend the hill for a closer look at the tombs. The area provides a great view.
Myeongneung was first built for Queen Inhyeon in 1701. King Sukjong was added in 1720. Queen Inwon joined them in 1757. Every year memorial rites take place on May 13th. This honors King Sukjong, Queen Inhyeon, and Queen Inwon.
The Joseon Dynasty’s royal tombs follow a pattern. Each tomb still has unique elements. Walls protect the sacred ground. These are called Gokjang. The Bongbun marks the burial place. Stone supports called Byeongpungseok surround it. Nanganseok is a hedge-like stone outside Byeongpungseok. Stone tigers called Seokho guard the Bongbun. Stone sheep named Seogyang pray for the soul’s repose. A pair of stone pillars called Mangjuseok stand at the mound’s front. Honnyuseok is a rectangular stone inviting the soul to play. Jangmyeongdeung is a lantern comforting the soul. Stone scholars called Muninseok stand by the lantern. Muinseok are stone military officers guarding the king. Stone horses called Seongma are also present. The Yegam is for burning written prayers. The Bigak houses a stone monument. This displays the king and queen’s names. It also lists the king’s achievements. Jeongjagak is a building for memorial services. Chamdo refers to stone paths. These paths lead to the Jeongjagak building. The Sindo is the path of the Gods. The Eodo represents the path of the King. Visitors should walk on the Eodo path. Subokbang housed the tomb’s guard officer. Suragan prepared foods for the memorial services. Baewi are stones where officials knelt to pray. Hongsalmun is a gate with red pillars. It marks the sacred area beyond.
Queen Inwon’s final resting place reflects Joseon traditions. It also stands as a testament to her role. She was a queen during a turbulent time.