The Blue House from Korea is the equivalent of the White House in the USA. Located in Jongno-gu of the capital Seoul, Cheongwadae is in fact a complex of multiple buildings, built largely in the traditional Korean architectural style with some modern architectural elements and facilities. The Blue House is one of the most protected official residences in Asia.
This is the residence of the president during his mandate. The name of Cheongwadae doesn’t only represent a location, but it also refers to the highest authority from the Republic of Korea.
In the Goryeo era ( 918-1392) the residence/royal palace’s buildings were situated in the actual location of the Blue House being part of the bottom of the Gyeongbok palace’s garden which was the main palace from the Joseon era (1392 -1910 ).
Destroyed by the end of the 16th century, the Gyeongbok palace was rebuilt at the end of 19th century from the orders of Heungseon Daewongun regent, who named the place as Geongmudae (also called archery place) hoping that the Ministers will develop both their literary and martial abilities.
During the Japanese colonialism period ( 1910 – 1945), the official residence of the General Governor was here, and after the liberation, the president of the Republic of Korea started to use this location as both residence and bureau. It was renamed Cheongwadae in 1960, and the main bureau building was rebuilt in 1991, giving the Blue House the actual shape.
For visiting the Blue House, you will need a reservation in advance.
For more details about the process of making a reservation visit the official website of the Blue House.
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