Tomb of King Wanggon

 tomb(s), cemetery, barrow/tumulus/burial mound, UNESCO World Heritage Site, 10th century construction

(현릉/顯陵)
Hyonrung, also known as the Tomb of King Wanggon, is the tomb of Emperor Taejo (877-943, r. 918-943), founder of the Koryo dynasty. Taejo, who was known as Wang Gon prior to ascending the throne, was the first king to unify the entire Korean peninsula after subjugation the southern states of Silla and Paekje. Construction on the tomb began after the king's death in 943. He was buried with his favorite wife, Empress Sinhye. The tomb was heavily reconstructed in 1994, and all of the original buildings and statues were cleared away in order to accomplish its "restoration". Today, the burial chamber is open to tourists, and displays the coffins containing the remains of Taejo and his queen, as well as the tomb's original carved decorations. Hyonrung is located on the side of Mt. Mansu in Haeson-ri, Kaepung County, and is listed as North Korean National Treasure #179. In the valley behind the tomb is the Chilrunggun, a group of seven tombs containing the remains of various princes, princesses, and concubines.