Cheong Wa Dae (청와대)

Cheong Wa Dae is known for the blue tiles that cover its roof.
It is said to have 150,000 handmade ceramic blue colored roof tiles. The term “Cheong Wa Dae” literally translates to “Blue House” in English.

Seoul’s Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae) sits at the foot of Mount Bugaksan and is the official office and residence of South Korea’s president (You can take it as the “White House” of South Korea). It is where the President of the Republic of Korea lives and works. The compound is home to administrative offices for the President, Secretariat and other staff as well as the official residence of the President and First Lady. Cabinet meetings, receptions for state guests, critical decision-making for the country, and diplomatic events all take place here.

The name “Cheong Wa Dae” not only denotes a specific location but also stands for the highest authority of the Republic of Korea. The house was built in the traditional Korean architectural style within a Joseon Dynasty–era royal garden.

It is an ideal spot to appreciate traditional Korean architecture and learn about South Korea’s tumultuous history.

History & Facts

In the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), royal palace halls were on today’s Cheong Wa Dae site, it was part of the beautiful royal garden for Gyeongbokgung, the main palace, during the Joseon Dynasty(1392-1910)

Destroyed in the late 16th century, Gyeongbokgung was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. After liberation, the Republic of Korea President began to use the site as a residence and office. It was renamed Cheong Wa Dae in 1960, and the Main Office Building was completed in 1991, giving Cheong Wa Dae its current appearance.

The Blue House now consists of the Main Office Hall, the Presidential Residence, the State Reception House, the Chunchu-gwan Press Hall, and the Secretariat Buildings. The entire complex covers approximately 250,000 square meters (62 acres).

Gardens on the grounds of *Cheong Wa Dae*

Major Sites:

The Main Office Building

Inside are various rooms dedicated to specific functions such as the President’s Office. Cabinet meetings and summit talks are held here. The sprawling lawn in front of the Main Office Building is called the Grand Garden and used for outdoor events.

The building to the right of the Blue House was dedicated to Admiral Yi Sun-sin while the one on the left was dedicated to King Sejong the Great. Both buildings are usually used for meetings.

State Guest House

Completed in December 1978, this is the venue for hosting official events that involve foreign guests and for holding large meetings.

Sangchunjae

Completed in April 1983, this traditional Korean-style structure is used for receiving foreign guests and holding unofficial meetings.

Nokjiwon

Completed in 1968, this garden is populated by some 120 different tree species as well as commemorative trees planted by former Presidents. The oldest tree here is about 310 years old. An umbrella pine symbolizing Nokjiwon is more than 160 years old and stands about 17 m (55.8 ft) tall.

What to Know:

The Blue House is located right next to the east gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
It’s a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Since it is the president’s house, you should not be surprised that there are security checks.
A passport is required to tour the grounds.
It’s a quick walking tour (usually under an hour), you don’t get to go inside the buildings.
Bring a camera/phone to capture the Blue House with Bugaksan Mountain in the background (however, visitors are only allowed to take photos at designated areas).
Free souvenir at the end of the tour~