The Unique Dining Table of Joseon’s Royal Family: Korean Palace Cuisine
During the Joseon Dynasty(1392–1910), palace cuisine was not just about eating; it was an art that symbolized the dignity and elegance of the royal family. Using only seasonal, fresh ingredients and medicinal herbs, palace dishes achieved a balance of nutrition and aesthetics. The King’s table underwent strict inspection and preparation, ensuring each dish exemplified the long-standing royal traditions with precision and refinement.
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| Changdeokgung Palace [Source] Pixabay, CSK |
The Meaning Behind Different Table Settings
Palace cuisine was intricately designed for
both everyday meals and grand ceremonies, reflecting the values and traditions
of the royal court. Here are some key types of royal meals:
1. Surasang
Surasang, the daily royal meal, was simple yet nutritionally balanced, served in three stages: Wonban, Gyeotban, and Chaeksangban.- Wonban: A traditional set of 12
side dishes centered around rice and soup, served with care and order.
- Gyeotban: Included special treats
like raw beef and poached eggs, alongside tea.
- Chaeksangban: Featured additional
dishes and cooking tools for variety during the meal.
This setup emphasized harmony in food and etiquette, revealing Joseon’s
cultural focus on balance and order.
2. Jinchan-yeon
Jinchan-yeon was an extravagant banquet held for royal birthdays, state events, or welcoming foreign envoys. These events showcased lavish decor and performances, underscoring royal authority.- Visual Feast: With music, dance,
and beautifully arranged foods.
- Historical Reenactments: Such as
the Suwon Hwaseong Festival, which brings historical scenes to life,
immersing visitors in palace culture.
3. Dagwasang
This table included tea and light snacks like traditional sweets, rice cakes, and seasonal fruits, enjoyed during the royal family’s leisure time. Today, you can still experience a taste of this with tea ceremonies at places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace.4. Specialty Dishes
Created to match the royal family’s preferences and health needs, these included dishes like Tteokbokki, sinseollo (royal hotpot), and tangpyeongchae (mung bean jelly salad). |
| Royal Court Tteokbokki [Source] KTO, Kim Jiho |
Royal Family's Favorite Dishes
1. Sinseollo
This hotpot with an elegant presentation was a favorite during royal gatherings. A coal heater in the center kept the broth warm while an array of meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked slowly, delivering a rich, deep flavor.
2. Tangpyeongchae
Tangpyeongchae, a colorful jelly salad, was a dish with symbolic significance. The 21st King Yeongjo enjoyed it as a reminder of his policy to promote unity among his officials."Tangpyeong" means
"harmony and balance," symbolizing efforts to resolve factional
conflicts and promote unity during the Joseon Dynasty.
3. Gujeolpan
Known for its nine-compartment tray filled with colorful vegetables and wheat pancakes, this dish invited guests to create their unique wraps, combining different textures and flavors. |
| Gujeolpan [Source] Pixabay, Dkdragon |
4. Japchae
Unlike today’s sweet potato noodle japchae, the original palace version focused on vegetables and meat. It was a beloved dish for its nutritious balance and taste.Traditional Korean Japchae: History, Varieties, and How to Make It
5. Jeonyueo
Sliced meats and vegetables were coated with flour and egg before being pan-fried. It was served with dipping sauces, offering deep, savory flavors cherished by the royal family.
6. Lotus Leaf Rice
Steamed in fragrant lotus leaves, this dish provided a subtle flavor and was appreciated for its health benefits. The 19th King Sukjong especially enjoyed it, requesting it on his daily menu.
Palace Cuisine: A Precious Heritage of History and Culture
More than just food, palace cuisine
reflects centuries of history and the philosophy of the Joseon royal family.
These dishes symbolized health, prestige, and national stability. Today, palace
cuisine preserves our traditional values, reminding us of the historical and
cultural roots that define Korea.
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| Gyeongbokgung Palace [Source] Pixabay, Huong Nguyen |
Why Palace Cuisine Still Matters for Modern People
Palace cuisine offers a glimpse into the
lives of Joseon royalty, enriching our understanding of Korean culinary
history. Its focus on nature, balance, and health also highlights our
ancestors’ wisdom, promoting the elegance and excellence of Korean culture
worldwide.
How to Enjoy Palace Cuisine in Today’s World
Today, palace cuisine can be enjoyed at
specialty Korean restaurants or through hands-on cooking programs at historic
sites. Visitors can also explore palace cuisine exhibits at museums like the
Korean Culinary Museum in Anseong, or the Institute of Korean Royal Cuisine in
Seoul.
In Conclusion
Palace cuisine goes beyond food to capture
the essence of Korean heritage. Exploring its flavors and meaning is a journey
into Korea’s proud history and culture. Why not try making jeonyueo for your
family dinner, dine on tangpyeongchae at a fine restaurant, or join a royal
cuisine experience program?
[Appendix] Introduction to Royal Korean Cuisine Restaurants [Source: Dgram]
1. Korea House: A Cultural Complex Showcasing Korean Royal Cuisine and Traditional Arts
Korea House offers an immersive cultural
experience, where visitors can enjoy royal palace cuisine alongside traditional
art performances and cultural activities, all in one place. The esteemed
culinary team, with numerous awards from various cooking competitions, presents
dignified and authentic royal dishes.
- Website: www.koreahouse.or.kr
- Reservation Inquiries: +82-2-2266-9101~3
- Address:
10 Toegye-ro 36-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul - Transportation:
3-minute walk from Exit 3, Chungmuro Station (Lines 3 & 4) - Operating Hours:
- Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Dinner: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (1st seating) / 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
(2nd seating)
- Closed:
Third Monday of every month, Korean Lunar New Year's Day, and Chuseok Day - Additional Features:
Daily traditional art performances and cultural experience programs
2. Samcheonggak: A Harmonious Blend of Traditional Hanok and Nature
Famed as a filming location, Samcheonggak
is a serene space where historic Korean hanok architecture blends seamlessly
with natural beauty. Here, guests can enjoy royal palace cuisine that respects
tradition while offering a modern interpretation. The tranquil hanok buildings
and outdoor courtyards host a variety of banquets, performances, and immersive
cultural experiences.
- Website: www.samcheonggak.or.kr
- Reservation Inquiries:
+82-2-760-3700
- Address:
3 Daesagwan-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul - Transportation:
About 10 minutes by car from Gwanghwamun; shuttle service available - Operating Hours:
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM - Closed:
Open all year - Additional Features:
Offers traditional cultural experience programs such as tea ceremonies, crafts, painting, and martial arts
3. Seokparang: A Taste of Royal Korean Tradition in a Historic Hanok Setting
Seokparang is a historic dining space,
crafted from the relocated villa of Heungseon Daewongun, the powerful father of
Joseon's last king, King Gojong. Blending late Joseon Dynasty garden aesthetics
with traditional hanok architecture, Seokparang offers elegant palace-style
dishes made from premium ingredients, alongside traditional Korean liquors from
artisans across the country.
- Website: www.seokparang.co.kr
- Reservation Inquiries: +82-2-395-2500
- Address:
309 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul - Transportation:
About 10 minutes by car from Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 3) - Operating Hours:
- Lunch: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Dinner: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Closed:
Korean Lunar New Year's Day, Chuseok holidays
4. Gooong: Traditional Korean Royal Cuisine with a Jeonju Twist
Gooong offers an authentic royal cuisine
experience infused with the unique flavors of Jeonju. Each dish is elegantly
presented in handcrafted brassware by master artisan Lee Bong-ju, a recognized
Important Intangible Cultural Heritage holder. Situated in Jeonju’s renowned
Hanok Village, a UNESCO-designated Creative City of Gastronomy, Gooong
celebrates both tradition and local culinary artistry.
- Website: www.gooong.co.kr
- Reservation Inquiries: +82-63-227-0844, +82-63-226-0844
- Address:
54-1 Eunhaeng-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do (Pungnam-dong 3-ga 72-7) - Transportation:
Within 50m of Eunhaeng-ro in Jeonju Hanok Village - Operating Hours:
- Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
- Closed:
3-day holiday during Korean Lunar New Year and Chuseok
5. Saenggwabang at Gyeongbokgung Palace: A Unique Royal Dessert Experience
Located within the historic Gyeongbokgung
Palace, Saenggwabang offers an exceptional experience of traditional Korean
royal desserts. Visitors can savor a variety of elegant sweets and teas that
were once enjoyed by the Joseon royal family. Each item on the menu is crafted
with the utmost care, showcasing Korea's cultural heritage and the refined
taste of royal cuisine.
- Website: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace’s official site or inquire
on-site for more details.
- Address: Gyeongbokgung Palace, 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: Short walk from Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5
(Line 3)
- Operating Hours: Open during Gyeongbokgung Palace operating
hours
- Closed: Follows the holiday schedule of Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Additional Features: Traditional tea ceremonies and Korean
dessert tasting experiences
Saenggwabang offers a unique opportunity to
immerse yourself in the elegance of Korea’s royal dessert culture, all within
the picturesque surroundings of a historical palace. It’s a perfect destination
for anyone looking to experience a sweet taste of Korean history.
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