The remains of Joenmun Gate, a middle gate of Deoksugung Palace that had only been known through historical records and photographs, have been discovered.
The Cultural Heritage Administration’s Royal Tombs Management Office announced on April 9th that it had uncovered the foundation stones and cornerstones of Joenmun Gate during an excavation of the gate’s site.
Palaces traditionally feature a three-gate system – a main gate, a middle gate and a gate leading to the main hall. Deoksugung Palace was structured with Daeanmun Gate as the main gate, Joenmun Gate as the middle gate, and Jungmung Gate leading to Jungheonjeon Hall.
Joenmun Gate survived the great fire of 1904 that ravaged Deoksugung Palace, but was lost during the Japanese colonial period in the 1910s. This contrasts with the continued presence of Daeanmun Gate and Jungmung Gate. Following its demolition, Joenmun Gate was only visible in the ‘Gyeongung Reconstruction Plan’ created during construction at the palace between 1907 and 1910, and in photographs from that era.
Excavations conducted by Hoseo Cultural Heritage Institute revealed the gate’s foundation stones and cornerstones, which align with the layout documented in the ‘Gyeongung Reconstruction Plan.’
The excavation also uncovered remnants of the palace wall foundations, a fire prevention facility known as a “sobanggye,” and parts of the foundation for the Iwangjik Office, the government agency that managed the affairs of the Joseon royal family during the Japanese colonial period. The Royal Tombs Management Office described the findings as a “meaningful academic achievement” that provides insight into the changes and uses of Deoksugung Palace during the modern era.
The Royal Tombs Management Office plans to complete the restoration design for the Joenmun Gate site this year and begin phased restoration work, aiming for completion by 2029. The office stated that the restoration will “restore the three-gate system of Deoksugung Palace and more fully convey its value to the public.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Joenmun Gate?
Joenmun Gate was the middle gate of Deoksugung Palace, located between the main gate, Daeanmun, and Jungmung Gate, which leads to Jungheonjeon Hall.
When was Joenmun Gate lost?
Joenmun Gate was lost during the Japanese colonial period in the 1910s, though it survived the 1904 fire at Deoksugung Palace.
What is the plan for Joenmun Gate now?
The Royal Tombs Management Office plans to restore Joenmun Gate by 2029, aiming to restore the palace’s original three-gate system.
As Deoksugung Palace moves forward with plans to restore a lost piece of its history, what impact will this have on the understanding and appreciation of Korea’s royal past?
