Beyond Beauty: The Symbolism of Gyeonghoeru Pavilion

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion

Hidden inside the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is not just another beautiful building; it’s a place where royalty once dined, history unfolded, and legends were born. Built in 1412 by King Taejong, this stunning structure was where Joseon kings hosted extravagant banquets, met with foreign envoys, and even performed rain rituals in times of drought. But beyond its function, Gyeonghoeru is filled with hidden symbolism that reflects the values and power of the Joseon dynasty.  

Imagine standing in front of this massive pavilion, its 48 stone pillars rising majestically from a shimmering pond. The water perfectly mirrors the pavilion, creating the illusion that the entire structure is floating, a symbol of the king’s ability to rule with balance and wisdom. According to legend, a mystical dragon spirit rests beneath the pavilion, connecting the king to the heavens and granting him divine power. Whether you see it as a political stage or a spiritual gateway, Gyeonghoeru is undeniably one of Korea’s most iconic landmarks.  

A Tale of Destruction and Rebirth  

For all its beauty, Gyeonghoeru has faced its fair share of hardships. In 1592, during the Japanese invasions of Korea, the pavilion, along with most of Gyeongbokgung Palace, was burned to the ground. For nearly 270 years, it remained in ruins, a ghost of its former self, until King Gojong decided to bring it back to life in 1867.  

And what a revival it was. The new version of Gyeonghoeru was even bigger and grander than before, featuring 48 massive granite pillars, an elegant wooden roof, and an open design that allowed fresh air and sunlight to flow through freely. But the challenge wasn’t done for Gyeonghoeru just yet. During the Japanese colonial period from 1910 to 1945, many parts of Gyeongbokgung Palace were dismantled; however, Gyeonghoeru managed to survive the storm. Recognizing its cultural importance, the Korean government designated it as National Treasure No. 224 in 1963, ensuring that it would stand tall for future generations.  

Architectural Brilliance with a Splash of Magic  

If you think Gyeonghoeru looks impressive from the outside, wait until you hear about its design. Built on a man-made island, the pavilion is literally surrounded by water, making it one of the most unique royal structures in Korea. The 48 stone pillars, arranged in three rows of sixteen, show more than beauty; they symbolize stability, time, and the strength of the monarchy.  

Another cool fact? The entire structure was built without using nails. Instead, traditional wooden joinery techniques were used, making the pavilion not only stunning but also incredibly strong. Its open design wasn’t just for aesthetics; it allowed cool breeze to pass through, keeping guests comfortable even during Korea’s hot summers.  

The pavilion’s location was also chosen based on Feng Shui principles, positioned between the Bugaksan and Inwangsan Mountains to create a perfect balance of energy. And let’s not forget the pond, which served as more than mere decoration. The still water reflected the pavilion like a mirror, reinforcing Confucian ideas of harmony between nature and humanity.  

A Living Piece of History, Now with a K-Pop Twist  

Even after centuries, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion remains an important part of Korea’s cultural and historical identity. It is still used today for state events, cultural performances, and special ceremonies, keeping its royal legacy alive.  

But here’s something you might not have expected: a performance by BTS at this site. In September 2020, as part of BTS Week on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, the world-famous group performed "IDOL" in front of Geunjeongjeon Hall and "Mikrokosmos" at Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. The performance at Gyeonghoeru was particularly magical, as the pavilion’s reflection in the pond created a stunning visual effect, making it look like they were performing on water. This moment introduced millions of people to Korea’s rich cultural heritage.  

Why Gyeonghoeru Still Matters Today  

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is more than just a beautiful palace: it is a symbol of resilience, culture, and artistic brilliance. From hosting grand royal feasts to surviving wars and becoming a modern-day concert stage, it continues to stand as a bridge between Korea’s past and present. Whether you visit to admire its breathtaking architecture, uncover its hidden symbolism, or simply soak in its history, Gyeonghoeru remains one of Korea’s most treasured landmarks.

—Step back in time and experience the grandeur of this historic palace hall! As a student guide, I have the privilege of sharing its fascinating history with visitors. Join one of our free tours to explore its beauty and stories firsthand.

 Reserve your spot here : https://thegunggwol.imweb.me/Preview 

Maybe I’ll be your guide!  

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‌“궁능유적본부.” Cha.go.kr, 2021, royal.cha.go.kr/ENG/contents/E101010000.do.

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Korea Tourism Organization, KTO. “Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁).” Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁), 2024, english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=87740.

‌‌김효정. “BTS, 두번째 경복궁 무대…경회루에서 반짝인 “소우주.”” 연합뉴스, 2 Oct. 2020, www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20201002041600005. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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“Imjin War (1592–1598) - War History.” War History, 9 Aug. 2018, warhistory.org/@msw/article/imjin-war-1592-1598.