Gyeongbok Palace, Seoul

Gyeongbok-gung is the first built palace out of 5 palaces in Seoul(1395) and was the symbol of the sovereignty of Joseon dynasty. 

In 1592, the palace was burnt down during Japanese invasion and it was rebuilt in 1867 under the leadership of prince Heungseon. This time the palace was built much bigger, with 500 buildings crowed together in a labyrinthine arrangement.

sadly, it was not the end of suffering for the palace.                              

In 1911 the ownership of the palace was handed over to the Japanese empire and 90% of the palace was demolished. 

There has been ongoing restoration since 1990 and much part of the palace is now restored to its original state.

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion - This is the place where the king used to throw formal banquets for foreign envoys. 

This is the place where the ‘Hangul’, the Korean alphabet, was created.

There are 3 beautiful mountains (Inwang, Bugak, Bukhan) in the back of the palace and they make the palace look even more magnificent.

I joined a guided tour, which is free, and the guide lady was so informative with many unknown interesting stories!  

I love to feel like being in back in time when walking on those alleys. 

Queen’s garden

This is where the king used to eat and rest - It’s amazing how simple this place is. 

You will always find plenty of quite places to sit down and have a rest  :-)

 A little castle on the lake - Truly enchanting!

 Today when I went there, they were having a ceremony that celebrates Sejong the great king.

The traditional orchestra was playing the palace music. I did not quite follow the music but was very impressed that how they can play so slowly and still in tune with one another!

In overall, a gorgeous spring day spent well worth!