Injeongmun Gate is the main gate of Injeongjeon Hall. The term “Injeong” in its name means “benevolent politics”. The gate usually served as a place to welcome foreign envoys or to hold the coronation ceremony for the king or the crown prince. Kings including Hyojong, Hyeonjong, Sukjong, and Yeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty held their coronation ceremonies at this gate.
Injeongmun Gate was built under the reign of King Taejong of the Joseon Dynasty. However, it was seriously damaged by a fire in 1744, and it was rebuilt in 1745.
The gate is a one-story building composed of three entrances. It has a four-edged roof, called "Paljakjibung”, whose curved eaves lead to corners protruding upwards. The architecture style is known as Dapo style. All the rafters from the ceiling and their color were very simple. The gate was restored to its original state after being renovated during the Japanese invasion of Korea.
In the Joseon Dynasty, the coronation ceremony was the most important ceremony among other events. Following the traditional culture, the enthronement of the king should take place in front of the main entrance of the main structure of the palace, the Injeongmun Gate in Cheongdeokgung Palace, where the former king passed away. The ceremony was held in a simple way six days after the former king’s death.
Injeongmun Gate is regarded as a prominent cultural asset that shows the dignity and majesty of the Joseon Dynasty. Shall we move on to the Injeongjeon Hall to explore more interesting stories about Cheongdeokgung Palace?