introduction

This site is the tomb of two royals, King Hyojong (r. 1649–1659), the 17th monarch of Joseon, and his consort, Queen Inseon, or Lady Jang. The tomb of King Hyojong is filled with green pine trees, letting off a rich scent. It is also quiet and serene as most visitors flock to the tomb of King Sejong, which is right next to this site. Born on May 22, 1619 (11th year of King Gwanghaegun), King Hyojong was the second son of King Injo. He was appointed as Prince Bongnim in 1626 (4th year of King Injo), but was taken hostage with his older brother, Crown Prince Sohyeon to Qing due to the war in 1636 (14th year of King Injo). He was taken to Simyang and had to stay there for eight years before being released in 1646 (23rd year of King Injo). After the sudden death of the Crown Prince, Prince Bongnim succeeded the throne at the Injeongmun Gate in Changdeokgung Palace on May 13, 1648 (27th year of King Injo).

After succeeding the throne, King Hyojong implemented Daedongbeop, which was the law that replaced regional specialty taxes with rice. He also created a new currency system, Sangpyeongtongbo and spread the use of it. He planned to conquer the north to wash away the shame of the Joseon dynasty’s defeat, but he could not achieve his goal as he passed away on May 4, 1659, only 10 years after his succession, inside Daejojeon of Changdeokgung Palace.