Junggungjeon (Central Palace)

This is a reproduction of the palace where the King of Baekje conducted the affairs of the kingdom. As it was located in the middle of the palace complex, it was often referred to as Junggungjeon, or the ‘Central Palace’. However, the original name of the building was Cheonjeongjeon, as indicated by the signboard hanging from the roof.

The name Cheonjeongjeon has special significance. In the ancient Baekje Kingdom, there was a rock called Cheonjeongdae, where people went to seek advice and approval from heaven about matters of importance. When the administrators of Baekje needed to make important decisions, rituals were held at Cheonjeongdae and opinions were gathered in order to make a final decision.

There is a famous story that is often told about Cheonjeongdae. Whenever Baekje was preparing to elect a new prime minister, they wrote down the names of three or four candidates and placed it on this rock. After a few days, only one of the names was marked with a seal on the document. The people believed that the candidate with a seal had been approved by the heavens. This building, where the political decisions of Baekje were made, was named after the rock Cheonjeongdae.

We hope that you are charmed by the desire of the ancient people to follow the rules of heaven, and that you enjoy your time here at the heart of Baekje politics.