Joseon Mililtary Installations on the Capital's East Side
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park stand today on the former Dongdaemun Stadium site, which in Joseon times was the location of the Hullyeonwon (Military Training Administration) and Hadogam (the Lower Directorate), the camp for soldiers belonging to the Hullyeondogam (Military Training Command). The east side of the Hanyangdoseong (Seoul City Wall) was on lower ground than the rest of the wall, making it more vulnerable to enemy attack. Therefore, various military facilities were installed in this area to bolster the wall’s defense capabilities.
This exhibition introduces roles and changes in the Hullyeonwon and Hadogam in late Joseon. We provide a look back at the history and unique sense of place that the DDP location held in the past.