Historical places #4 in Yeoju-si

Nyeongneung (Tomb of King Hyojong & Queen Inseon)

4.6 · 431 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Nyeongneung (Tomb of King Hyojong & Queen Inseon), 327 Yeongneung-ro, 면 세종대왕 Yeoju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

King Hyojong spent eight years as a political hostage in the Qing Dynasty before ascending to the throne.

2

The burial mounds are positioned on a 'superior' layout where the King's tomb is situated to the right of the Queen's when viewed from below.

3

The relocation to Yeoju in 1673 was prompted by concerns that the previous site in Guri had poor geomantic energy.

4

Stone statues of civil and military officials flank the path, reflecting the strict social hierarchy of the Joseon period.

Overview

Nyeongneung is the dual burial site of King Hyojong, the 17th monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, and his wife, Queen Inseon. The tomb is unique for its 'dongwon-isang-neung' arrangement, where the royal couple's mounds are placed side-by-side on separate hillsides rather than sharing a single mound. This site was relocated to its current position in Yeoju in 1673 from its original location in Guri. The surrounding landscape is designed according to geomantic principles to ensure harmony with the natural mountainous terrain. Visitors can walk along a pine-lined path that connects Nyeongneung to the adjacent Yeongneung, the tomb of King Sejong the Great. The site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list under the collective 'Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty'.

Photo spot

The elevated vantage point on the path between the two royal mounds, offering a clear view of the structural arrangement.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Yeongneung to see the combined burial complex.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths between the tombs involve significant walking on gravel and dirt trails.

Bring sun protection and water, as large portions of the royal tomb area are open and exposed to direct sunlight.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb onto the burial mounds, as this is strictly prohibited to preserve the historical earthworks.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain silence, do not step on the grass mounds, and respect the restricted access areas marked by wooden fences.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn, when the surrounding deciduous trees turn vibrant colors and the humidity of the Korean summer dissipates.
Address
Nyeongneung (Tomb of King Hyojong & Queen Inseon), 327 Yeongneung-ro, 면 세종대왕 Yeoju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
37.314, 127.609
Get directions
Details
Tomb TypeDongwon-isang-neung (Side-by-side burial mounds)
Cultural HeritageUNESCO World Heritage Site

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn, when the surrounding deciduous trees turn vibrant colors and the humidity of the Korean summer dissipates..

The elevated vantage point on the path between the two royal mounds, offering a clear view of the structural arrangement.

Close by you'll find Silleuksa Temple, 세종산림욕장, 세종대왕 유적지.

South Korea

About Yeoju-si