Jongno District

Jongno District is a district in central Seoul, South Korea. It is the historic center of Seoul, and contains the Joseon-era royal palace Gyeongbokgung and the former presidential residence, the Blue House. Etymology In Korean, the name 'Jongno' means Bell Street. Jongno district is named after the road Jongno, which is a major trunk road running through the center of the district. The bell in question refers to Bosingak belfry, which sits at Jonggak intersection, on Jongno road. Description Jongno has been the center of the city for 600 years, since it is where the Joseon dynasty established its capital city. The district is commonly referred to as the face and heart of Korea because of its important roles in the politics, economics, culture, and history as the capital city. Jongno District is home to palaces in which the kings used to reside and work, such as Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Unhyeongung. The South Korean president's former residence, the Blue House, is also located in the Jongno District.