When King Seonjo returned from the escape to Euiju during the Japanese Invasion in 1592, both Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces had been burnt down. Therefore, houses, which Prince Wolsan’s family members were living in, were selected to be used as a temporary residence for the king. This is the beginning of Gyeongungung’s history. Seogeodang was mainly used by King Seonjo and this is why it was named as ‘the house where a very old king once lived.’ This is also where Gwanghaegun asked for forgiveness to Queen Inmok after she was re-called to the Palace. However, this historical place was destroyed during the 1904 Deoksugung Palace Fire. Today’s Seogeodang was rebuilt in 1905. As Seongeodang is a two storied building which was not painted, it creates a classical elegance.