Okcheongyo Bridge of Changgyeonggung Palace

This stone bridge stands just inside Honghwamun Gate, the main gate of Changgyeonggung Palace, spanning the Okryucheon Stream as it flows from north to south; the stream is said to flow through an auspicious spot that channels the vital energy of the surrounding mountains and waters. Overall the bridge takes the form of two semicircular arches (hongye) joined together, giving it a sense of stability and a dignity befitting a palace bridge. Where the two arches meet, a fierce-faced dokkaebi, or goblin, is carved, drawing the eye; shaped to fit the space, its broad forehead and narrow chin form a triangle. Such faces are set on either side of the bridge, seemingly to protect those who cross it. The top of the bridge rises slightly in the middle like a rainbow, and the bridge is generously wide, a width that takes into account the honour guard that would flank the king on either side during royal processions. Beautiful balustrades run along both sides of the bridge, and atop the posts at either end, stone animals have been carved in rounded form. As a bridge within a palace, the style and carving of every part are exceptional, and it is regarded as more beautiful than any comparable bridge in any other palace, which is why this bridge alone has been designated a treasure. It is thought, in connection with the construction of Changgyeonggung Palace, to have been built in 1483, the fourteenth year of King Seongjong of Joseon.

AI Translation

Visiting

Opening hours

09:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:00)

Closed

Mondays * Closed the next business day if Monday is a holiday

Parking

Available (22 parking spaces)

Information

+82-2-762-4868

Visitor information: Korea Tourism Organization · KOGL Type 1

Where it is

Region

Jongno-gu, Seoul

Designation

Treasure · 보물