Seonjeongneung, Royal tomb complex in Gangnam District, South Korea
Seonjeongneung is a royal burial complex with two separate tomb areas protected by stone statues of officials, animals, and military figures positioned at the entrances. The site combines multiple shrines, pavilions, and paved pathways connecting the different burial areas.
The burial ground was established during the Joseon Dynasty and holds tombs of King Seongjong, Queen Jeonghyeon, and their son King Jungjong who ruled from the 1400s through the early 1500s. This period marked an important phase in the kingdom's stability and administrative growth.
The site follows traditional Korean geomancy principles with T-shaped shrines and ceremonial structures positioned throughout. The arrangement of buildings and statues reflects beliefs about proper balance and harmony with the natural world.
The site is open daily and easily accessible from Seolleung train station, which is served by multiple transit lines. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as exploring the complex requires walking through interconnected areas on foot.
King Jungjong's burial site sits separately to the east after his remains were relocated to rest nearer to his father. This later reinterment demonstrates how family proximity mattered even after death in the royal tradition.
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