Built as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung for the Joseon Dynasty in 1405, Changdeokgung became the residential palace and later the main palace. After the Japanese invasion from 1592-1598, it was the palace that was reconstructed (1610) and served as the main palace, until Gyeongbunkgung was finally rebuilt from the ashes in 1868. About 30% of the structures from pre-Japanese times still remain; others have been since restored. Unique amongst the city’s palaces, Changdeokgung was laid out to be harmonious with the topography. Although the palace has some beautiful and naturally arranged buildings, it is the rear garden that steals the show. Recognizing the palace as an “outstanding example of Far Eastern palace architecture and garden design,” it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.
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