The Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs are considered one of the most important royal tombs in South Korea and a must-see place in Seoul. In this mini guide I explain a bit of history about the Royal Tombs, what to see, hours and how to get there.
VISIT THE ROYAL TOMBS OF SEONJEONGNEUNG, SEOUL
This royal tomb complex belongs to two of the most important kings of the Joseon Dynasty, King Seongjon (9th king of the dynasty) and his son King Jungjong (11th king of the dynasty) and Queen Jeonghyeon, wife of King Seonjon and mother of King Jungjong.
The Royal Tombs are located within the Samneung Park, in the heart of the Gangnam area. Like the rest of the royal tombs in South Korea, these tombs continue to follow the typical pattern of royal burials. Each tomb is a small burial mound or mound of sand inside which is the Bogbun or the body of the deceased monarch. These mounds in turn are covered with grass on all sides. In addition, the entire area is surrounded by wooded areas and trails, where you can walk and enjoy the tranquility that surrounds the place.
When you enter the park where the royal tombs are located, you can follow two paths. The short itinerary (it surrounds the entire park and through paths you will reach the Tombs. And the long path (in addition to surrounding the park, it goes into the grove).
If you start the short path, the first building you will find is the gatehouse. Restored, keeping its traditional Korean architectural style. Later, you will find different buildings in red and green, which belonged to the kings, they come to be temples. And following the path in two different areas are the tombs. You will be able to access quite close to the tombs and statues, but you will not reach them. Years ago, access was closed to preserve the place.
There are numerous tombs scattered throughout South Korea and around Seoul, however, being in the center of Seoul, the Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs are the most accessible and fastest option, and without a doubt an essential stop to make in Seoul.
Visiting hours of the Royal Tombs of Seonjeongneung, Seoul
The Royal Tombs complex is open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (February/October) and from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. (November/January). The entrance fee is 1,000 won.
It has bathrooms in two points of the enclosure and one of them has small lockers to leave backpacks or small suitcases.
How to go to the Royal Tombs of Seonjeongneung, Seoul
The most comfortable way is to go by metro. You can take subway line 2 to Seolleung station or subway line 9 to Seonjeongneung station. Here is a complete guide on how to get around Seoul.
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