Gyeongbokgung, known as the Northern Palace because of its position, served as the main residence of the kings of the Joseon dynasty until it was completely destroyed by fire during the Imjin War, which lasted from 1592 to 1598. The tragedy continued as the palace was abandoned for two centuries! It was not until the arrival of Prince Regent Heungseon that it was restored.
Comprising 500 rooms, the palace was constantly destroyed by Japanese colonisation and then rebuilt again. Today, the palace is considered to be the largest of the five palaces in the capital.