King Yeongjo, Unfolding the Golden Days of Joseon

Wolleung is the royal tomb of King Yeongjo, the dynasty’s 21st ruler, and his second Queen.

Along with his grandson, King Jeongjo, he is widely regarded as a wise and capable ruler who opened up an era of unprecedented social stability and cultural achievement. He was born to a court lady of low rank, but grew to the longest living and longest reigning monarch of the dynasty. He ruled Joseon for 52 years until his death in 1776 at the age of 83.

Once brought to the throne, he started to cure his dynasty’s chronic disease of factional strife in the government. He adopted a policy to recruit talents regardless of what faction they belonged to and contributed to the achievement of political stability. The king was also fond of learning, so he regularly held academic meetings on Confucian classics. Through these meetings, he studied and exchanged views on various state affairs, and made significant achievements in legal and agricultural policies.

He was faithful to the teachings of Confucianism and led a frugal life. He focused all his attention on people’s safety and welfare as well. For example, he reformed tax system to reduce the burden of taxes on people, and prohibited harsh corporal punishment. His achievements include the anti-flood project for Cheonggyecheon stream flowing across the heart of Seoul. This project also created many jobs for the poor families, and boosted the economy in the area.

His people-centered governance and love of knowledge were transferred to his successor, and the dynasty’s cultural achievements reached a zenith. Take a look around the two burial mounds of the royal couple. There is no stone screen behind them, and the stone railings enclosing them are marked by delightfully plain carving. They still reflect the king’s austere lifestyle.