On the east side of Changdeokgung Palace, there is a hall building that is modest but very noble for a place where government officials lived. It is called Nakseonjae Hall. It was first built in 1847 by King Heonjong. Nakseonjae Hall was built as a living space for the royal family and was temporarily used as the king’s office in 1884. The meaning of its name is “enjoy the goodness”.
King Heonjong built Nakseonjae Hall with the intention of establishing the strong authority of the royal court and showing his determination on the reforms. The building itself was different from the traditional palace buildings. It was built in accordance with the architectural style of aristocratic residences without using dancheong, the Korean traditional decorative coloring, on the building’s surface. The round gate inside Nakseonjae Hall, the Manwolmun, its intricately patterned bars, and brick walls were popular architectural styles in China at the time. In addition, the calligraphy of famous calligraphers and writers of the Qing Dynasty was also used for the writings on the signboards and pillars.
Moving towards the back of Nakseonjae Hall, you will find a garden surrounded by beautiful scenery. It is impressive to see the garden in the hall with beautiful blooming flowers. The floral wall of Nakseonjae Hall was the last to be built among the floral walls that remained in the palace. Its contrast with the uncolored Nakseonjae Hall only serves to highlight its stunning beauty.
Lastly, Seokbokheon House and Sugangjae House are next to Nakseonjae Hall. Empress Sunjeong, the wife of Emperor Sunjong, lived in Seokbokheon House until 1966, which was partially renovated for the aging Empress.