The name “Gyeongbokgung” is composed of three important Korean characters: “Gyeong” (경), “Bok” (복), and “Gung” (궁).
- “Gyeong” (경, 景) means “brightness” or “radiance,” symbolizing a glorious and bright future.
- “Bok” (복, 福) stands for “blessing” or “good fortune,” representing positive growth and prosperity.
- “Gung” (궁, 宮) translates to “palace.”
Together, “Gyeongbokgung” means “Palace of Radiant Blessing.” This name reflects the hope that the palace would be a place of prosperity and blessings for the nation.
The name was given by Jeong Do-jeon. It comes from a phrase in the Book of Songs (Shijing), meaning that the king, his descendants, and all the people would enjoy great (景) fortune (福) in an era of peace. The name is derived from the phrase “君子萬年介爾景福,” which expresses the wish for such prosperity.