Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty in South Korea

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Cultural Heritage Administration
Korea Tourism Organization
Website of the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty (Korean only)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2009
Size of heritage: 1,891 ha
- Buffer zone: 4,660 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 128,453°
Latitude: 37,197°

Summary

The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty form a collection of 40 tombs scattered over 18 locations. Built over five centuries, from 1408 to 1966, the tombs honoured the memory of ancestors, showed respect for their achievements, asserted royal authority, protected ancestral spirits from evil and provided protection from vandalism. Spots of outstanding natural beauty were chosen for the tombs which typically have their back protected by a hill as they face south toward water and, ideally, layers of mountain ridges in the distance. Alongside the burial area, the royal tombs feature a ceremonial area and an entrance. In addition to the burial mounds, associated buildings that are an integral part of the tombs include a T-shaped wooden shrine, a shed for stele, a royal kitchen and a guards’ house, a red-spiked gate and the tomb keeper’s house. The grounds are adorned on the outside with a range of stone objects including figures of people and animals. The Joseon Tombs completes the 5,000 year history of royal tombs architecture in the Korean peninsula.

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Introduction

The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, located in South Korea at coordinates N37 11 50 E128 27 10, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This site encompasses the burial grounds of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled Korea for over five centuries from 1392 to 1910. The tombs, spread across various locations in the capital city of Seoul and its surrounding areas, provide a glimpse into the rich heritage and royal traditions of this influential dynasty.

History

The Joseon Dynasty, founded by King Taejo, sought to establish a centralized Confucian state. The royal tombs were an integral part of this vision, serving as the final resting place for the monarchs and their consorts. The construction of these tombs began in the early 15th century and continued until the end of the dynasty. The selection of the burial sites was based on geomantic principles, with careful consideration given to the surrounding landscape and topography.

Current State

Today, the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty stand as a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the era. The site comprises 40 individual tombs, including 27 for kings, 30 for queens, and multiple tombs for other members of the royal family. Each tomb is a meticulously designed complex, featuring various structures and elements that reflect the hierarchical structure of the dynasty. The tombs are characterized by their serene and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings. They are typically located on hillsides, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes. The burial mounds, known as tumuli, are the most prominent feature of the tombs. These earthen mounds, covered in grass and trees, symbolize the eternal presence of the monarchs. The tombs also include ceremonial stone sculptures, known as "seokjeong," which guard the entrance to the burial grounds. These sculptures, depicting mythical creatures and civil officials, serve as protectors of the royal spirits. Additionally, the tombs often feature stone bridges, known as "chilbong," which connect the earthly realm to the spiritual realm. Preservation efforts have been undertaken to maintain the integrity of the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty. The South Korean government, in collaboration with UNESCO, has implemented strict conservation measures to protect these cultural treasures. These measures include regular maintenance, restoration of damaged structures, and the establishment of visitor guidelines to ensure the long-term preservation of the site. Visitors to the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty can explore the grounds and gain insight into the royal customs and traditions of the era. The site offers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur and majesty of the Joseon Dynasty, providing a window into the rich history of South Korea.