Publications
Carbon Storage Assessment of Changdeokgung Palace Forest Based on Biomass Allometric Equations†
Changdeokgung Palace Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ecosystem Conservation Area, stores approximately 7,905.26 tons of carbon across its canopy and sub-canopy layers. This finding underscores the significant ecological value of urban palace forests, particularly those dominated by large-diameter and ancient trees like Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino, which contributed the most to carbon storage despite being fewer in number. The study, conducted from 2020 to 2023 across 759 sample plots, used biomass allometric equations to quantify carbon storage in 7,988 trees, providing a baseline for assessing the functional value of historical landscapes. Dominant species varied by terrain, with xeric oaks thriving on ridges and slopes, while Quercus aliena Blume and others prevailed in valley areas. The research highlights the importance of preserving such forests not only for their cultural heritage but also for their critical role in urban carbon sequestration.
Exploring the Modern Production Process of Traditional Patterns Based on Digital Design - Focusing on the Patterns of Changdeokgung Nakseonjae -
Digital design technology can standardize and adapt the aesthetic value of traditional cultural heritage, such as the patterns of Changdeokgung Palace Complex's Nakseonjae, to modern lifestyle product specifications without compromising its core identity. This study confirms that a design adaptation process based on morphological analysis allows for flexible expansion into diverse product lines while preserving traditional aesthetics. Additionally, it demonstrates how combining digital precision with traditional craftsmanship in prototype production merges the intangible qualities of digital data with the tangible nature of handcrafted materials. The research contributes to the potential transformation of preservation-focused heritage data into high-value commercial products, supporting the development of a Korean cultural ecosystem with strong identity and economic viability.
The Cultural Biography of Wood and Late Joseon Architectural Technology: Focusing on the Changdeokgung Yeonggeon Dogam Uigwe (1834)
A study reveals that the reconstruction of Daejojeon Hall in Changdeokgung Palace (1834) was significantly shaped by the physical constraints of timber, demonstrating how natural materials actively influenced architectural design and state logistics. The research shows that the inability to source ideal timber forced the expansion of a nationwide logistical network, ultimately reducing the hall's scale from 45 to 36 bays. This 'cultural biography' of wood highlights its role as an active agent in reshaping royal space, challenging idealized historical records and emphasizing the interplay between material resistance and architectural innovation.
Meaning of the Construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace Garden Outside Sinmu-Gate – The Experience of Changdeokgung Palace and Heungseon Daewongun's Architectural Intention –
A new analysis reveals that the garden construction outside Sinmu-Gate at Gyeongbokgung Palace, led by Heungseon Daewongun during its 18th-century reconstruction, was a deliberate architectural and political strategy to re-establish Joseon-era governance structures. The study demonstrates that this design choice, featuring administrative buildings like Yungmunjeong and Yungmujeong, mirrored the spatial organization of early Joseon palaces, reinforcing Confucian political ideals by physically separating civil and military institutions while maintaining symbolic continuity with traditional palace layouts. By integrating past examination sites such as Gyeongmudae into the garden's layout, the reconstruction aimed to revive historical governance models, blending functional utility with ideological symbolism.
Newly introduction of indoor passages in Changdeokgung Palace in the early twentieth century: a typological analysis and its architectural implications
A groundbreaking transformation occurred at Changdeokgung Palace between 1907 and 1920, marking the first introduction of fully enclosed indoor passages in traditional Korean palace architecture. This study reveals two distinct passage types—Corridors, which connected separate buildings and were later removed during restorations, and Hallways, which organized interior space within single buildings and became universally standardized post-independence. The findings challenge prior assumptions about colonial imposition, demonstrating instead a complex hybridity where traditional and modern spatial concepts coexisted. By analyzing historical drawings, newspapers, and restoration documents, the research refines architectural typology frameworks and extends postcolonial hybridity theory to palace architecture, offering critical insights for heritage preservation that recognize multiple legitimate historical layers.
Reconstructing memory through adaptive heritage: a comparative analysis of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung in UNESCO discourse
A comparative analysis of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces reveals that Gyeongbokgung, despite its exclusion from UNESCO World Heritage recognition due to reconstruction, embodies adaptive heritage principles by reflecting Korea’s postcolonial transformations and evolving national identity. The study challenges conventional heritage frameworks rooted in the Authorized Heritage Discourse (AHD), emphasizing symbolic reappropriation and historical rupture. Using a case analysis and text mining of over 90,000 news articles, the research highlights Gyeongbokgung’s cultural and interpretive potential as adaptive heritage, advocating for more inclusive and context-sensitive approaches to World Heritage evaluation in East Asia.
Korean-Western Blended Interior Style and Its Meaning in the Korean Royal Palaces During the Japanese Colonial Period - Focused on the Daejojeon and Huijeongdang in Changdeokgung Palace -
During Japan's colonial rule over Korea, the Changdeokgung Palace Complex's Daejojeon and Huijeongdang showcased a unique fusion of Korean and Western interior design elements. This blend, characterized by traditional Korean aesthetics in upper sections and Western influences—particularly French—below, reflected both colonial political pressures and evolving domestic sensibilities toward Western decoration. The study reveals that this eclecticism was not merely a product of modernity but also a response to Japan's own cultural synthesis with the West, offering insights into Korea's interior design industry during this period.
3D Risk Mapping of Hazard Tree in Changdeokgung Palace
Researchers developed a novel method to predict potential failure zones and impulses from falling trees, which poses significant risks to heritage structures. By establishing a formula that calculates these hazards based on tree height, weight, and surrounding terrain, the study created detailed 3D risk maps for Changdeokgung Palace Complex in South Korea. Using Rhino3D and Grasshopper algorithms, the team analyzed critical areas such as Yeongyeongdang Hall and Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, identifying high-risk zones where falling trees could impact nearby buildings or visitors. This approach enables proactive risk assessment, efficient management of hazardous trees, and the formulation of disaster prevention strategies to safeguard both cultural heritage and public safety.
A Research on the Classical Chinese Literary Heritage related to Changdeokgung Palace through Changdeokgungji - Focusing on the King’s Writings -
A significant portion of classical Chinese literary heritage related to Changdeokgung Palace, particularly the king's writings, remains understudied despite its historical and cultural value. This study highlights that while architectural and historical research on the palace is extensive, there has been scant attention to the Hanliterary legacy associated with it. Focusing on the 'Changdeokgungji' manuscript, specifically the 'Aje' (御製) poems, the research examines the thematic consciousness embedded in these royal writings. The findings underscore a pressing need for deeper exploration of this literary corpus, which could provide richer insights into the cultural and political dynamics of the Joseon Dynasty.
A Study on the Political Function and the King's movement path in the Palace Garden of Changdeokgung Palace and Gyeongbokgung Palace in the Reign of King Gojong
Research reveals that King Gojong of the Joseon Dynasty utilized diverse movement paths and locations within Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung Palaces for governance, challenging traditional assumptions about royal activities being confined to specific buildings. The study identifies three distinct routes to Chundangdae in Changdeokgung Palace and four to Gyeongmudae in Gyeongbokgung Palace, highlighting their strategic significance and proximity to the king's residence. These paths, used during events like Gwageo (science examinations) and Jeongang (royal lectures), suggest a deliberate effort to balance accessibility with secrecy. The analysis of historical records provides new insights into the political functions of palace gardens, offering a nuanced understanding of royal movement dynamics during King Gojong's reign.
An Inference of Plot Design Method Applied to Pavilions in the Rear Garden of Changdeokgung Palace as World Cultural Heritage
Researchers have inferred a conventional plot design method used by Joseon Dynasty engineers for pavilions in the Rear Garden of Changdeokgung Palace. The study suggests that these engineers employed a geometrical approach using non-gauged rulers or strings to determine the position of pavilion pillars, likely without numeric scale bars or protractors. By analyzing actual measurement plot design layouts and overlaying basic figures like circles and lines, the team reconstructed the sequential processes of this method, which was validated against the complex structure of Buyongjeong Pavilion. This finding provides a new understanding of traditional Korean garden pavilion design techniques from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), offering insights into historical architectural practices without relying on original design documents.
A Comparative Study on the Bat Gate in the Architecture of Joseon and Cheongdae Palace －Focusing on Nakseonjae in Changdeokgung Palace and Gongwangbu in Beijing－
A comparative analysis of the 'Bat Gate' motif in Joseon and Qing dynasty palaces reveals distinct national stylistic adaptations despite shared origins. The study found that while both cultures adopted the motif—popularized during China's Qing dynasty—Joseon's implementation, particularly in Nakseonjae at Changdeokgung Palace, was more abstract and simplified compared to the precise, symbolically rich designs seen in Beijing's Gongwangbu. This divergence reflects underlying cultural differences, even as both regions drew from similar historical influences, including ceremonial exchanges during King Jeongjo's reign (late 18th century). The research bridges gaps in prior studies by tracing the motif's reception and evolution through architectural elements like walls, columns, railings, and window frames.
A Study on Restoration of Mounting the Four-fold Screen of the Sun, Moon and Five Peaks in Injeongjeon, Changdeokgung Palace: Focusing on Adhesion and Stabilization Treatment for Gold Leaf
Researchers identified optimal adhesive formulations for stabilizing gold leaf on the Four-fold Screen of the Sun, Moon and Five Peaks, a Joseon Dynasty royal painting at Changdeokgung Palace. They found that a 5:1 (v/v) mixture of rabbit skin glue (5%) and funori (4%) provided superior adhesion, while coating the gold leaf surface with 1% rabbit skin glue enhanced its yellow hue without compromising stability. The study employed comparative analysis of viscosity, adhesion properties, color values, and gloss before and after stabilization treatment, offering a targeted solution to prevent peeling caused by environmental degradation.
Characteristics of Space and Decoration in the Main Halls of Changdeokgung Palace in Modern Period of Korea
Changdeokgung Palace Complex underwent significant transformations during Korea's modern period, blending traditional and foreign influences under political pressures. The study reveals that the palace's main halls—Injeongjeon, Seonjeongjeon, and Daejojeon—were adapted to reflect forced modernity, incorporating Japanese industrial crafts, European Japonisme furniture, and Qing-style Peranakan elements, while retaining traditional court paintings. This fusion of styles, driven by Japan’s colonial intentions in the early 20th century, created a unique hybrid aesthetic that merged cultural diversity with political necessity. The research highlights how these changes laid the foundation for modern craftsmanship, even amid occupation, demonstrating Korea's adaptive capacity during a turbulent era.
The Implementation of the ‘Regency Ceremony’ and the Ceremony of Enthronement in the 19th Century
A significant shift in royal succession rituals occurred during the 19th century at Changdeokgung Palace Complex, with the introduction of the 'Regency Ceremony' ('垂簾聽政儀') to formalize the role of a regent queen. This ceremony, first implemented upon Sunjo's ascension in 1800, marked a departure from traditional practices by moving the Enthronement ceremony away from the main gate of Changgyeonggung Palace to Injeongmun Gate within Changdeokgung. The study reveals that subsequent kings followed this new protocol, which involved ascending the throne at Hwangyeongjeon Hall and then proceeding to Huijeongdang Hall for the Regency Ceremony. This ritual change underscored the formalization of regency power and its close association with coronation ceremonies, providing insight into the evolution of royal governance structures during this period.
Ecological Characteristics and Changes to the Forest in the Rear Garden at Changdeokgung, a World Cultural Heritage Site
Soil acidification and declining organic matter threaten the biodiversity of Changdeokgung Palace Complex’s Rear Garden. Research analyzing soil characteristics, vegetation structure, and historical data from 1986–2018 reveals significant ecological instability, with the forest transitioning from Pinus densiflora to Quercus aliena dominance but lacking stable understory layers. High densities of Acer pseudosieboldianum, Acer palmatum, and Sorbus alnifolia disrupt ecosystem stability, necessitating targeted vegetation management. The study underscores the need for heritage site conservation strategies rooted in ecological succession and historical context to mitigate urbanization-driven degradation.
Scientific Comparison Study on the Joseon Dynasty Palace Roof Tiles and Modern Handmade Roof Tiles
Modern roof tiles differ significantly from Joseon Dynasty palace roof tiles in firing temperature, density, and structural properties. Analysis of chromaticity, cross-sectional structure, component composition, and crystal structure revealed that Joseon-era tiles exhibit higher porosity, greater water absorption, and a wider color range, with unvitrified clay minerals and low-temperature mineral peaks like micas. In contrast, modern handmade tiles show denser clay materials and no such mineral peaks, indicating higher firing temperatures. Principal component analysis of trace elements in Joseon tiles suggests consistent sourcing from specific regions during their manufacture, implying standardized clay mix proportions. This study provides critical insights into the manufacturing techniques and technological evolution of roof tiles over centuries.
A Comparative Study of the Color Culture of Traditional Palace Architecture in Korea China, and Japan in the 15th Century
A comparative analysis of the color culture in traditional palace architecture reveals that while South Korea and China share similar hue and color quantity, South Korea and Japan exhibit closer brightness and chroma. The study highlights how natural geography, cultural environment, and historical context shape architectural colors, reflecting distinct national characteristics despite common features. Researchers employed field measurements, literature reviews, and expert interviews to uncover these patterns, providing theoretical insights for future cultural design and urban heritage preservation.
A Study on the Landscape Perception of the Chinese Visitors Through the Boards and Couplets of Changdeokgung Palaces Rear Garden
Chinese visitors to Changdeokgung Palace’s rear garden overwhelmingly engage with its calligraphic boards and couplets, demonstrating high recognition (97.5%) due to familiarity with Han characters. While both elements aid landscape interpretation, boards are significantly more effective than couplets, with higher comprehension scores (3.39 vs. 2.97) and greater perceived usefulness (3.85 vs. 3.37). Regional differences in perception were also noted, particularly for the Bu-yong-ji and Okryu-cheon areas, where visitors linked specific inscriptions to their surroundings. Interview data revealed that understanding these elements depends on individual education, professional background, and experience, underscoring the importance of interpretive guidance in enhancing visitor engagement with cultural heritage landscapes.
Comparative study on the couplets of Korean and Chinese palaces : Focusing on Huwon in Changdeokgung Palace and Imperial Garden in the Forbidden City
A comparative analysis of the poetic couplets (柱聯詩) in Changdeokgung Palace's Huwon and Beijing's Forbidden City reveals both shared thematic elements and distinct cultural emphases. While both Korean and Chinese palace couplets depict daily life, faith, moral lessons, and scenic beauty, their thematic foci differ: Korea emphasizes the rarity of true friendship (知己), while China stresses blessings for the monarchy and people. Additionally, Korean couplets employ more seasonal imagery than their Chinese counterparts. The study also examines creation methods, noting that both traditions frequently cite 7-syllable regulated verse (7言律詩) but differ in citation volume and source diversity. This research bridges gaps in existing scholarship by providing new insights into the cultural and aesthetic dimensions of East Asian palace architecture.
Material Analysis and Conservation Treatment for Mother‐of‐Pearl Floor Mirror at Daejojeon Hall of Changdeokgung Palace, Korea
A mother-of-pearl floor mirror from Daejojeon Hall at Changdeokgung Palace Complex, South Korea, was found to be primarily constructed using Dalbergia spp. wood, with later repairs involving Shorea spp., according to material analysis. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy revealed that the varnish used matches lacquer spectra, while X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis identified brass in metal wheels and line decorations, suggesting modern craftsmanship. Prior to conservation treatment, the mirror's structural instability was exacerbated by missing submaterials and foreign surface adhesives. Conservation efforts restored its original appearance using the same wood species confirmed through scientific surveys.
Connecting the Dots
Storytelling significantly enhances user immersion and engagement with video data in augmented reality (AR) environments at cultural heritage sites, according to research conducted at Changdeokgung Palace Complex. The study demonstrated that a themed narrative approach, which connects points of interest (PoIs) in a fixed order through embedded video data, outperforms traditional search-based AR experiences in providing meaningful guidance and deeper user engagement. This innovative method leverages multimedia databases indexed with a specialized metadata schema designed for AR applications, offering a more cohesive and immersive experience for visitors.
A Study on the Characteristics of the Byeolwon (別苑: A Separate Garden Made Away from Living Space) in Palace during the Joseon Dynasty period Illuminated by the Oungak Area at the Rear Garden of Reconstructed Gyeongbokgung Palace
A comparative analysis of the Oungak area at Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Ocryucheon at Changdeokgung Palace reveals striking functional and spatial similarities, suggesting a deliberate replication of leisure and relaxation features from one site to another during King Kojong's reign. Both areas, located in the northernmost part of their respective rear gardens, incorporated elements like pavilions for scenic views, waterways designed to mimic the Curve-Stream Banquet, and habitable structures, indicating a consistent approach to royal leisure spaces in Joseon Dynasty palaces. The study highlights how the Oungak area, with its unique topography-dependent design, served as a substitute for Ocryucheon, emphasizing the importance of rear garden functionality in palace architecture.
An Ontology-Based Augmented Reality Application Exploring Contextual Data of Cultural Heritage Sites
A groundbreaking Augmented Reality (AR) application enhances the exploration of cultural heritage sites by integrating rich, contextual data through an ontology-based framework. Unlike conventional AR systems that display basic Point of Interest (POI) information, this application links tangible and intangible heritages, providing users with detailed insights such as creators and historical events tied to specific locations. Implemented for Changdeokgung Palace Complex in South Korea, the system aggregates heterogeneous data into themes and relationships, offering a more immersive and informative experience. User studies validated its effectiveness, suggesting potential improvements for heritage site visits and future AR applications.
Measurement of Visual Privacy in the Royal Palaces focusing on the Prospect and Refuge - A case of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung -
Korean traditional architecture, particularly in royal palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, achieves visual privacy through a strategic balance of openness and closure in courtyard gardens. This study quantifies such privacy using the concept of 'prospect and refuge,' a design strategy linked to psychological wellbeing. By applying space syntax analysis and image processing with Adobe Photoshop CS6, researchers measured spatial configurations, connectivity, depth, control value, integration, and area ratios of prospect and refuge. The findings suggest that these mathematical properties can partially quantify visual privacy, offering insights into how traditional Korean architecture enhances human comfort while resolving conflicts with others in high-density urban environments.
A Comparative Study on Landscape Composition of Palace Gardens in Korea, China, Japan - Focused on Changdeokgung Palace, Summer Palace and Sento Imperial Palace -
A comparative analysis of palace gardens in Korea, China, and Japan reveals both shared cultural influences and distinct regional identities. The study highlights that Korean gardens, such as Changdeokgung Palace, uniquely adapt to natural terrain without destruction, reflecting indigenous styles while incorporating symbolic elements rooted in East Asian ideologies. While Chinese thoughts and techniques significantly influenced Korean garden development, all three regions—Korea, China (Summer Palace), and Japan (Sento Imperial Palace)—demonstrate homogeneity in waterscape utilization but diverge in cultural expression. Changdeokgung's rear garden notably served as a space for artistic appreciation rather than political authority, mirroring trends in Chinese and Japanese imperial palaces. The research underscores how each nation's palace gardens evolved by blending introduced elements with indigenous culture, establishing independent styles despite shared historical connections.
Finance of the Royal Architectural Bureau in Yiwangjik and Characteristics of its Architectural Activities during the Period of Japanese Occupation
During Japan's occupation of Korea, the royal architectural bureau Yiwangjik prioritized maintenance and reconstruction efforts, with significant funding allocated to shrines and housing facilities. Key projects included the 1918-1920 reconstruction of Changdeokgung Naejeon, a historic palace complex, and the construction of Tokyo Residence (1927-1930) and Deoksugung Palace Art Museum (1936-1937). This study reveals how financial allocations reflected shifting priorities under colonial rule, with a focus on preserving cultural heritage while adapting to occupation-era demands. The analysis examines budgetary data and architectural records to highlight the bureau's dual role in conservation and modernization.
Reorganization of the Main Spaces in Changdeokgung Palace during 1907~1910
Between 1907 and 1910, the Injeongjeon area of Changdeokgung Palace underwent significant reorganization, transforming from traditional Korean architecture to a Japanese-Western eclectic style, mirroring the Meiji Palace. This shift was orchestrated by Japanese architectural engineers who redefined the palace's spatial organization, structural design, and aesthetic elements under the guidance of Gungnaebu, the royal architectural bureau. The study reveals how this period marked a departure from historical preservation practices, blending cultural influences to create a modernized royal palace while retaining its symbolic significance.
A Study on Reconstruction of Naejeon Area at Changdeokgung Palace in 1920
A significant transformation occurred during the 1920 reconstruction of the Naejeon area at Changdeokgung Palace, blending traditional Korean architecture with modern and foreign influences. This study reveals that while the exteriors retained a traditional appearance using materials from Gyeongbokgung Palace, the interiors incorporated modern equipment like radiators and French furniture, alongside Japanese construction techniques for porches, corridors, and storage spaces. The reconstruction also altered the functional use of spaces, with Huijeongdang serving primarily as an audience chamber rather than a state hall, and introduced new organizational structures such as the Chansi office under Japanese influence. The research estimates the construction plans, progress, and completion of this eclectic rebuilding, providing insights into the adaptive reuse of historical structures during a period of colonial influence.
A Study on the 19th-Century Depiction of Parallel Projection in Donggwoldo
A late Joseon-era documentary painting, Donggwoldo, reveals that 19th-century depictions of Changdeokgung Palace and its adjacent structures were not merely accurate representations but rather conceptual reconstructions aimed at reflecting architectural ideology. The study demonstrates that while the painting adheres to traditional Joseon artistic techniques and uses parallel projection for a multi-perspective spatial structure, it selectively magnifies or scales down buildings to achieve near-ideal forms of palatial architecture. This approach transcends practical documentation, suggesting a focus on ideological representation over physical accuracy.
A Study on the change of Changdeokgung Palace in the latter part of Late Joseon Dynasty, 1834-1910
Changdeokgung Palace Complex underwent significant transformations during the latter part of the Late Joseon Dynasty (1834-1910), marked by both natural and human-induced changes. The study reveals that while the palace maintained its structural integrity until 1907, the ascension of Emperor Sunjong in that year led to extensive modifications under Japanese colonial influence. These changes included the demolition, alteration, and repurposing of historical structures, transforming the palace into a public park with elements like a zoo, botanical garden, and museum. The research, based on historical records and repair plans, highlights the stark contrast between the palace's role as a royal residence during the Joseon Dynasty and its subsequent degradation under colonial rule, leaving visible traces that impede full restoration.
A Study on the Composition Method for Representation of Chwibyeong
A recent study reconstructs the traditional Korean garden element, Chwibyeong, using historical texts and experimental planting to reveal its original form. The research analyzes composition methods from 18th-century literature, specifically Imwonkyungjeji, and compares them with existing reconstructions at Changdeokgung Palace Complex in Seoul. Findings indicate that current representations differ significantly from historical descriptions, suggesting a loss of traditional authenticity. The study provides new insights into Chwibyeong's unique features, including plant growth characteristics and structural design, which could restore its cultural significance as part of Korean garden aesthetics. This work offers practical guidelines for future conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of this heritage element's original form and function.
A Study on the Remodeling of Injeongjeon Area at Changdeokgung Palace in 1908
A 1908 remodeling of the Injeongjeon area at Changdeokgung Palace, a historic site in South Korea, revealed a deliberate attempt by Japanese colonial authorities to diminish the palace's symbolic power. The study identified key changes—including renaming the area Alhyunso (Ekkensho), exclusive Japanese involvement, and the influence of Ito Hirobumi—that mirrored the Ekkensho audience hall at Japan’s Meiji Palace. By comparing architectural plans from both sites, researchers confirmed that the remodeling aimed to reduce the majesty of the Joseon Dynasty's palace, reflecting broader colonial strategies during the occupation period.
On the Changing of Architectural Form of the Royal Bedchamber in Changdeokgung Palace - From the Reconstruction after Imjinwaeran to the Early Japanese Colonial Period -
Historical analysis reveals that the Royal Bedchamber of Changdeokgung Palace underwent significant architectural transformations during the late Joseon period and early Japanese colonial era. The study demonstrates that post-Imjinwaeran reconstructions utilized salvaged materials from Ingyeonggung Palace, altering its spatial composition and maintaining this form until the end of the Joseon Dynasty. This research sheds light on how political and historical events shaped the palace's design, preserving a glimpse into the king's daily life and royal utopia before its loss during colonization. The study employs archival analysis and spatial composition techniques to reconstruct the bedchamber's evolution.
The Usage of Traditional Roof Frame and Fire Prevention Design in the Deajojeon Complex Reconstruction in Changdeokgung during the period from 1917 to 1921
The reconstruction of the Daejojeon Complex at Changdeokgung Palace (1917–1921) marked a significant shift in architectural practices during Japan's colonial period. This study reveals that traditional roof frames were reintroduced to palace buildings, reaffirming their cultural and structural significance despite modernization pressures. Additionally, Daejojeon became the first royal building in the complex to incorporate fire prevention designs into its wood structure, setting a precedent for safety without compromising tradition. The research combines literature review with on-site analysis to highlight how this reconstruction preserved Changdeokgung's traditional landscape while allowing Joseon-era architects to influence colonial-era design norms.
A Comparative Study of Space Characteristics of Chinese Summer Palace and Korean Changdeokgung Palace Garden from the Aspect of Horizontal Tablet
A comparative analysis of the Chinese Summer Palace and the Korean Changdeokgung Palace Complex reveals distinct cultural and philosophical influences embedded in their horizontal tablets. While the Summer Palace's tablets emphasize landscape characteristics—such as natural surroundings, phenomena, and scenic views—they also deepen spatial meaning through literary expressions. In contrast, Changdeokgung's tablets reflect Confucian ideals, underscoring moral, ethical, and scholarly values that shaped palace architecture and garden design during its era. This study highlights how horizontal tablets serve as cultural artifacts, physically connecting architectural elements while symbolizing the cognitive and ideological frameworks of imperial palaces. The findings expand our understanding of how such sites integrate philosophical concepts into their spatial design.
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