The Site of Uijengbu

Whispers of power and intrigue, that’s what comes to mind at The Site of Uijengbu. Here, in the heart of Seoul, once stood the nerve center of the Joseon Dynasty. The Site of Uijengbu served as the highest administrative body, a place where decisions that shaped a nation were made. Established in 1400 by King Jeongjong, The Site of Uijengbu held immense significance. It housed the Yeonguijeong (Chief State Councillor), Jwauijeong (Left State Councillor), and Uuijeong (Right State Councillor). These influential figures guided the king and oversaw the affairs of state until 1907. The Site of Uijengbu stood east of the iconic Gwanghwamun Gate, a prominent landmark among the government offices lining Yukjo Street. Imagine the bustling activity, the constant flow of officials and scholars, the weight of responsibility hanging in the air. The Imjin War brought devastation, fires engulfing the original structures of The Site of Uijengbu. Yet, like a phoenix from the ashes, it rose again. Rebuilt alongside Gyeongbokgung Palace during Heungseon Daewongun’s reign in 1865, The Site of Uijengbu regained its former glory, albeit briefly. The tides of history are relentless. During the Japanese occupation and subsequent industrialization, much of the historical landscape surrounding The Site of Uijengbu was lost. Administrative offices occupied the grounds until the 1990s. It then transformed into the Gwanghwamun Citizens’ Open Plaza in 1997. The past, however, is never truly buried. In 2013, Seoul embarked on a journey of rediscovery. Academic research and excavations unveiled remnants of The Site of Uijengbu. More extensive digs between 2016 and 2019 revealed the actual locations of the buildings. The layout of the “Three Halls” emerged: Jeongbondang, Hyeobseondang, and Seokhwaedang. A serene rear garden, complete with a pond and pavilion, was also uncovered. The excavation unearthed another layer of history. The foundations of the Gyeonggi Provincial Government building, constructed by Japanese authorities in 1910, were discovered at The Site of Uijengbu. This served as tangible proof that this site embodies centuries of history. To preserve these precious artifacts, Seoul reburied the site after careful treatment. The layout was recreated with pedestals and markings, allowing visitors to visualize The Site of Uijengbu’s original grandeur. Today, The Site of Uijengbu Historic Site Plaza showcases the outlines of five buildings: Jeongbondang, Hyeopseondang, Seokhoekdang, the Inner Corridor, and the Pavilion. The tranquil pond and gardens invite contemplation, a peaceful retreat amidst the echoes of Joseon Dynasty’s power.