In the process of founding the Korean Empire, King Gojong constructed Hwangudan Altar, an altar complex for the Rite of Heaven, at the site of Chinese envoys’ residence, Nambyeolgung Palace. He performed the enthronement ceremony as the founding emperor of the Korean Empire at the altar. During the Joseon Dynasty, the Rite of Heaven was abolished after King Sejo’s reign because only an empire can perform the Rite of Heaven according to Confucian writings. Therefore, the construction of Hwangudan Altar and the revival of its rite symbolized the establishment of an independent empire apart from China. Hwangu rite was the highest form of ceremony during the Korean Empire.
After Japan’s forced annexation of Korea in 1910, the Japanese Governor-General of Korea controlled the facilities and site of Hwangudan Altar, and its rite.In 1913, Japan decided to construct a hotel (currently the Westin Chosun Hotel) on the site of Hwangudan Altar, and the altar was demolished thereafter. Presently, only a few facilities remain, such as Hwanggungwu (the Imperial Vault of Heaven) and Seokgodan (Three Stone Drums).