Donggung Palace Site

Overview

The Donggung (Eastern Palace) site is the excavated foundation of the Silla crown prince's residence, located immediately adjacent to Wolji Pond. Archaeological work since 2007 has uncovered building foundations, drainage channels, and structural elements revealing the layout of the 7th-century palace compound.

Highlights

• Active Excavation: The site is under ongoing archaeological investigation — information boards show what has been discovered each season.
• Scale Reveals Palace Life: The foundations reveal workshops, kitchens, and ceremonial halls, painting a vivid picture of daily life in the Silla court.
• Wolji Connection: The palace and pond were designed as an integrated pleasure-and-governance complex.

History

Built alongside Wolji Pond in 674 CE by King Munmu, the Eastern Palace served as the official residence and administrative headquarters of the Silla crown prince. After the fall of Silla in 935, the palace was abandoned and buried under centuries of sediment until modern excavations began.

Visitor Tips

• Free: No separate entrance fee; accessible when visiting Wolji Pond.
• Interpretive panels: English-language signs explain the excavation findings.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes, best combined with Wolji Pond.