Donggureung, the East Nine Royal Tombs of Joseon (Guri)

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Dongureung is the largest royal tomb cluster of the Joseon Dynasty 1392-1910). Dongureung refers to nine tumuli east of Seoul where seven kings and their ten queen consorts, spanning almost the entire dynasty. are buried.

The tombs include Geonwolleung for the founding King Taejo (r. 1392-1398), Mongneung for the 14th ruler, King Seonjo (r.1567-1608), and Wolleung for the 21st monarch, King Yeongjo (r.1724-1776).

Located at an extraordinarily auspicious site. the cluster was initially called Dongoreung (eastern five tombs) and then Dongchilneung (eastern seven tombs). The current name dates to 1855 when Sureung was added to inter the posthumously named King Munjo (1809-1830).

The 40 Joseon royal tombs, except for two in North Korea, were collectively included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in June 3009 in recognition of their traditional Korean architectural style, beautiful landscaping in harmony with the natural settings, the rituals held at the royal gravesites, comparable examples of which are hard to find in any other country, and rich documentary related to the tombs.

Dongureung is Historic Site #193.