History buffs will find Gyeongbokgung Palace a perfect place to spend an afternoon in Seoul, South Korea. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
The city of Seoul is a vibrant and thriving place with an endless number of things to do, from ascending to more than 1,600 feet at the Lotte Tower to riding rollercoasters at Everland Resort.
But history buffs will find the Gyeongbokgung Palace is a perfect place to spend an afternoon.
This historical site in the heart of Seoul was first erected in 1395 and is one of the first and largest of the royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
It served as the royal palace until 1592 when it burned down during the first Japanese invasion of the Imjin War. It was rebuilt in 1865 into the beautiful palace we see today.
Gyeongbokgung Palace in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, was first erected in 1395 and is one of the first and largest of the royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
There is more to this place than its history. Not only will you be able to take great pictures, but you will also get a glimpse into the royal culture and architecture.
You can explore the palace grounds including the Gyeonghoe-ru Pavilion, Hyangwonjeong Pond and sculptures of Geunjeongjeon. You can also check out the National Folk Museum of Korea. It has a number of exhibits featuring historic objects, showing the national life of Korea through the ages.
Another way to immerse yourself in the culture that’s easier on your wallet is to come to the palace dressed in traditional attire called the “hanbok” and tour the palace grounds for free. A few shops close by rent or sell the garments and provide group tours with English-speaking guides.
Hyangwonji Pond and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
The National Folk Museum of Korea at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)
The changing of the palace royal guard is a worthwhile subject for photos or videos and decent social media fodder, too. It’s a reenactment of the guard-changing ceremony that took place during the Joseon dynasty, and a great way to see a traditional ceremony. The guards wear brightly colored clothes with traditional period weapons while playing traditional music.
This palace is like stepping into the past, as well as something fun to do with your friends and family. I recommend it to anyone who loves history and getting to know other cultures.
On the QT
Directions: A short walk from the Gyeongbokgung Palace Subway Station.
Times: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Tuesdays.
Costs: 3,000 won for adults; 1,500 won for ages 7 to 18.
Food: There are several restaurants in the area.
Information: Phone: +82-2-3700-3900; Online: www.royalpalace.go.kr
