Gungnamji: A Representation of Baekje’s Architectural Philosophy

 Gungnamji (宮南池) is one of the most iconic landscape heritage sites of Baekje, embodying the cultural sophistication of the Baekje royal court. It exemplifies the architectural philosophy of “Geomibulnu (儉而不陋) and Hwaibulchi (華而不侈)”—modesty without shabbiness and splendor without extravagance.

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1. Historical Background

The Royal Pond of the Sabi Period

• Gungnamji is believed to have been constructed in the mid-6th century, after Baekje moved its capital to Sabi (modern-day Buyeo) in 538 CE.
• While specific references to Gungnamji are absent in historical texts like the Samguk Yusa or Samguk Sagi, archaeological excavations and remaining structures confirm that it was part of the royal palace or detached palace complex, serving as a royal garden pond (宮苑池).
• Designated as Historic Site No. 135 in 1963, Gungnamji has undergone extensive excavations and restoration since the 2000s, shedding light on its structure and surrounding heritage.
  

  
  
  
  

Origin of the Name "Gungnamji"

• The name "Gungnamji" translates to "the pond south of the palace" (gung meaning palace, nam meaning south, and ji meaning pond).
• Although the original name of the pond is uncertain due to a lack of records, the term "Gungnamji" has been used throughout the Unified Silla, Goryeo, and Joseon periods to describe it.

Connection to Baekje’s Garden and Landscaping Culture

• Baekje absorbed advanced culture from China’s Southern Dynasties and integrated it with its own unique style, developing an innovative architectural and landscaping aesthetic.
• Gungnamji reflects this fusion, showcasing Baekje’s characteristic approach of maximizing natural landscapes while adding restrained human artistry, resulting in an elegant and harmonious royal garden.

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2. Purpose and Architectural Features

A Space for Royal Leisure and Gatherings

• As a part of the royal palace or detached palace, Gungnamji served as a venue where the king, royal family, and officials could relax or hold banquets.
• The pond is thought to have featured an artificial island at its center, surrounded by pavilions, allowing visitors to enjoy lotus blossoms and serene waterscapes. This suggests its use for both leisure and diplomatic receptions.
  
  
  
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Ornamental and Symbolic Landscaping

• Baekje, heavily influenced by Buddhism, revered nature and emphasized its aesthetic and symbolic representation.
• Lotus flowers and other aquatic plants in the pond carried Buddhist symbolic meanings while simultaneously adding to the visual beauty of the site.
  
  
  

Embodiment of "Geomibulnu and Hwaibulchi"

• The philosophy of “modesty without shabbiness and splendor without extravagance” is evident in Gungnamji’s design.
• Instead of excessive artificiality, the pond’s construction skillfully utilized the natural topography, resulting in a space that is simple yet never dull, splendid but not overly opulent.

Integration of Advanced Garden and Construction Techniques

• Archaeological findings reveal that the pond was meticulously planned, featuring man-made embankments and an artificial island. This demonstrates Baekje’s advanced skills in civil engineering and water management.
• Such endeavors likely reflected the royal court’s intention to showcase its authority and cultural sophistication to domestic and foreign audiences.
  

  
  
  
  

Water Management and Urban Planning

• Located in the planned city of Sabi, near the Baengma River (Geumgang), Gungnamji likely utilized underground springs or nearby water sources.
• It may have also played a functional role in the city’s water management and drainage system, highlighting Baekje’s strategic urban planning.

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3. Overall Evaluation

The Pinnacle of Baekje Royal Culture

• Gungnamji transcends its role as an ornamental pond, embodying the artistic sensibilities, daily life, and technical expertise of the Baekje royal court.

A Reflection of Baekje’s Architectural Philosophy

• The delicate balance of simplicity and elegance in Gungnamji perfectly encapsulates Baekje’s architectural aesthetic. It is neither ostentatious nor overly simplistic, offering a glimpse into the refined and dignified culture of the Baekje kingdom.
  
  
  
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Legacy and Influence

• Baekje’s landscaping techniques and architectural philosophy significantly influenced subsequent periods, including the Unified Silla era and the cultures of Japan and China’s Southern Dynasties. Gungnamji serves as a vivid testament to this cross-cultural exchange and innovation.

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Gungnamji represents the essence of Baekje’s palace culture and its landscaping mastery. It has withstood the passage of time, preserving the ideals of “modesty without shabbiness, splendor without extravagance.” The pond remains a vital example for understanding Baekje’s cultural and technological prowess, as well as its harmonious integration of nature and human artistry.

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