Seocho-gu in Seoul said it attended the 604th memorial rite for King Taejong, the third monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, held Monday at Heonneung in Naegok-dong, marking the occasion as a reminder of the importance of preserving traditional culture.
The rite, organized by the Heonneung Bonghyanghoe and held annually on June 8, is a traditional cultural event dedicated to honoring King Taejong's legacy and carrying forward the customs of Joseon royal memorial ceremonies.
About 500 people attended, including Heonneung Bonghyanghoe President Lee Jeong-su, association members and local residents, gathering to commemorate the historical heritage of the Joseon royal court. The ceremony began with a procession of officiants and proceeded through three successive offering rites — choheonrye, aheonrye and jongheonrye — at the Jeongjagak pavilion of Heonneung, concluding with a return to the jaesilannex.
Heonneung is the royal tomb of King Taejong and his queen consort, Queen Wongyeong of the Min clan. Recognized for its historical significance and cultural value, it is designated Historic Site No. 194 of South Korea and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
District Mayor Jeon Seong-su said in his remarks that serving as chief officiant at last year's rite had been a meaningful experience that showed him how much care and responsibility the preservation of tradition demands. "I am sincerely grateful to the Heonneung Bonghyanghoe and the residents who work to protect and preserve our unique traditional culture," he said.
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