Before it was known as Seoul, the city had several different names throughout its history. During the Joseon dynasty, Seoul was primarily known as Hanseong (漢城) or Hanyang (漢陽).
However, during the period when Korea was under Japanese rule, the name "Gyeongseong" (京城) was also used, as evidenced by the name of the city's main railway station.
Here’s a quick timeline of some of the names:
- Joseon Dynasty: Hanseong (漢城) or Hanyang (漢陽)
- Early 1900s (Japanese Occupation): Gyeongseong (京城) - example: Gyeongseong Station (京城驛) opened in 1900
- 1923 - 1947 (Japanese Occupation): Gyeongseong (京城) was used again for the station
- 1947 - Present: Seoul (current name)
Therefore, while Hanseong and Hanyang were prominent names, Gyeongseong also played a significant role in the city's naming history, particularly during the Japanese occupation period.
