Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity in Relief: Its Beautiful Symbolism and History

As Spring approaches, all beautiful flowers and plants come to life in the delicate palace of Gyeongbokgung. Visiting Gyeongbokgung is a pleasant experience, with its beautiful cherry blossoms and a wide variety of flowers highlighting the wonderful scenery in Korea.  Walking through the halls and sites, you may come across a hidden chimney behind Jagyeongjeon Hall, full of harmony between the different symbols of nature, that uncovers the significant history of a king’s throne.

For all its beauty and elegance, Jagyeongjeon Hall has a hidden history of one of the kings of the Joseon dynasty, Gojong. Built by regent Heungseon Daewongun, Gojong’s father, Jagyeongjeon Hall is the most stunning building in the palace, constructed to express gratitude towards Queen Shinjeong, King Heon-jong’s mother. Used as the dwelling of Queen Shinjeong, herself and only, it is the only hall in the palace that contains a royal bedchamber until the present. Queen Shinjeong played a significant role in assisting Gojong to become the next King in the Joseon Dynasty. Even though Heungseon Daewongun did not have great power back then, it was with her assistance that Gojong came to the throne following the 25th King. Given this history, not only the Jagyeongjeon Hall but also the surroundings — such as the longevity chimney — illustrate the beauty and symbolism associated with the Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity in Relief (십장생굴뚝)

The flower wall of Jagyeongjeon and the hall itself may have been two of the most fascinating areas in the Gyeongbokgung Palace. However, the wall behind it, the Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity in Relief (십장생굴뚝) is also breathtaking. There is a sense of longevity expressed by this chimney, particularly as a result of the longing of Queen Shinjeong, as she had a profound impact on Gojong. Designed with animals and trees, the beautiful style and patterns used let this architect serve as a national treasure. In addition to the design, there is a tile roof with ten chimneys that allow smoke to escape. As an impressive piece of formative art as well as an elegant chimney for ventilation, the Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity is both a diligent carving and a well-made piece of formative art.

Ten Symbols of Longevity

Diving deeper into the design of the chimney, there are a variety of symbols expressed in the center. Like its name, ten symbols signify a long life, known as Sipjangsaeng: the sun, mountains, stones, water, clouds, cranes, deers, turtles, pine trees, and elixir plants. Not only the Sipjangsaeng, but surrounding the chimney are other auspicious patterns as well, known as the Gilsangmun. Beautiful patterns of lotus flowers, ducks, and grapes enhanced the entire design of the chimney, attributing to the wonderful work of art. As a whole, these carvings collectively signified a long life, wishing for the health and happiness of the queen, and showing great respect and honor.

The chimney is not only known for its standing symbolism, though. Jagyeongjeon’s chimney also provides an insight into how architecture was practiced during the Joseon era. As you may wonder, this chimney has a bigger size compared to other buildings around the palace. This was indeed intentional to prevent fire from spreading to the residence of Queen Shinjeong, collecting smoke from Jagyeongjeon through underground pathways. In addition to representing good fortune and longevity, the large wall of bricks was built to give Jagyeongjeon Hall an additional level of protection against flames and hot smoke.

The Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity in Relief is more than a normal chimney in the palace. The detailed patterns and structures show both the deep meaning of a long life and the architectural wisdom behind it. Continuing to represent the beautiful Korean history, Jagyeongjeon Hall and the hidden chimney have a great impact on the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Walking through the beautiful halls, dive into this wonderful architecture and uncover its hidden but powerful symbols.

To see a closer view of this chimney with great symbolism and all the other wonderful aspects of the palace, consider booking our Gyeongbokgung tours given by students.

Using this link, check out our reservation site for a full detailed guide of Korea’s palace. Who knows, I might be your guide for the day, sharing the fascinating history of Gyeongbokgung!

Works Cited

Cultural Heritage Administration. “Chimney with Ten Symbols of Longevity in Relief at Jagyeongjeon Hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace.” Cha.go.kr, 2024, english.cha.go.kr/chaen/search/selectGeneralSearchDetail.do.

“국가문화유산포털 |.” Heritage.go.kr, 2025, www.heritage.go.kr/heri/gungDetail/gogungDetail.do?serial_number=171&language=eng&detail_code=21&gung_number=1.

“편집자의 잡다한 아카이브 : 네이버 블로그.” Naver.com, 2025, blog.naver.com/ryussell103/223604920223. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.