The Hidden Stories of Hyangwonjeong Pavilion

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, a square pond located in the rear garden of Gyeongbokgung Palace, brings a calm, peaceful atmosphere. The hexagonal, two-story structure contains an Ondol floor heating system on the lower floor, and colorful handrails on the upper floor, serving as a warm, comfortable space for the royal family. Unlike the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which was used for official events or parties, the Hyangwonjeong Pavilion was constructed for privacy and comfort. Often, royal families would even grab a book and settle for reading time, offering tranquility and seclusion. Yet, despite its peaceful appearance, Hyangwonjeong has hidden stories that reveal unexpected events in the past.

One hidden story is the unintended disaster that occurred in 향원지 (the pond that revolves around Hyangwonjeong) in King Gojong’s attempt to modernize the palace in the late 19th century. In 1887, King Gojong imported 750 light bulbs from the Edison Electric Company, to brighten up the palace. While the lights were successfully installed throughout the palace, it required extensive work from the pond.

The water in the Hyangwonjeong pond, which was used as a coolant for the generator, heated up and resulted in the fish inside and outside the pond dying from electrocution. Korean citizens, frightened by the event, believed it was the doing of the evil spirits and ‘the curse of the goblins (도깨비의 저주)’, leading them to temporarily shut down the lights.

Another hidden story revolves around the bridge, Chwihyanggyo (취향교) that is connected to the Hyangwonjeong Pavilion. Originally, the bridge was supposed to connect on the north side of the islet during the Joseon Dynasty. However, during the Korean War, the bridge was destroyed. While efforts were made to reconstruct it, the bridge was mistakenly constructed on the opposite side, now connecting to the south instead of the north.

Later, the bridge was rebuilt on its original spot, reconnecting the pavilion as it was intended. This continuous effort to retain Korean traditions reflects the Korean spirit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining historical accuracy.

This can even influence how visitors or tourists experience the place. When moved to the south, it created a completely different atmosphere, shifting the way people interacted with the pavilion. Now that it is relocated to its original position, tourists can fully understand its purpose as a bridge. One official from the Cultural Heritage Administration stated, “Chwihyanggyo is now a unique structure that combines both traditional and Western architectural styles, reflecting Korea’s journey through modernization and preservation.”

Finally, another interesting yet lesser-known story in the Hyangwonjeong Pavilion is the small staircase displayed under the hexagonal structure. Right under the Pavilion are 4 small staircases that lead to the pond. Initially, the staircase’s purpose was to connect the stairs and the bridge. However, once the citizens moved the bridge back to its original position, it no longer serves its purpose.

Through this Pavilion, many tourists can understand how even the most peaceful-looking places could have complex pasts, allowing them to appreciate Hyangwonjeong Pavilion on a greater level. Understanding these events is a key component to allow people to see it not just as a beautiful structure, but as a symbol of Korea’s tradition and culture.

Yujune Lee

Works Cited

Naver Blog. 1 Feb. 2017, blog.naver.com/hanmun2014/220888903976.

데미안2. "경복궁향원정과건청궁." 꿈꾸는세상, 18 Nov. 2024, kts4500.tistory.com/7399866.