King Sejong's role in the repair of the Kyeongbok Palace in the early period of the Joseon Dynasty

조선초기 경복궁 수리에서 세종의 역할

The Kyeongbok Palace was completely renewed during the reign of King Sejong, the fourth King of the Joseon Dynasty(1392-1910). The repair was done for the two main purpose; one was to obtain the dignity of the main palace of the dynasty, the other was to make the palace suitable for the performing of the various ritual ceremonies. It was under the reign of King Sejong that every detail of the procedure of the royal ritual ceremony. The procedure of ritual ceremony changed the buildings of the palace. The quarter of Sajeong-jeon, King's office, was changed remarkably from the original form as the building became the beginning and ending point of King's moving during the ritual ceremonies. The site of the palace had ill reputation from the point of geomancy since its establishment. King Sejong ignored the rumor and kept the palace as usual. In his later year's, Sejong had tried to build a detached quarter and a Buddhist shrine in the palace. But he had to give up his plan because of the retainer's strong opposition. The original layout of the Kyeongbok Palace could be remained as the King renounced his controversial personal wish. King Sejong deserves a full credit for the establishment of the Kyeongbok Palace as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.