Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul (must see)

Gyeongbokgung Palace – the largest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces – was built in 1395 as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Passing through its monumental southern entrance – Gwanghwamun Gate, continue straight ahead through Heungnyemun Gate and then Geunjeongmun Gate to reach the palace’s grand ceremonial courtyard.

Directly ahead stands Geunjeongjeon Hall, the main throne hall. Look at the rows of stone markers lining the courtyard. These are rank stones, which indicated where officials of different ranks stood during royal ceremonies. Inside the hall, see the royal throne and the painted screen behind it, decorated with the sun, moon, mountains, and pine trees.

The palace was largely destroyed during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and remained abandoned for more than two centuries. It was extensively rebuilt in 1867, but many structures were later demolished during Japanese colonial rule. Restoration work has gradually returned much of the complex to its historic appearance.

Continue north behind the throne hall to Sajeongjeon Hall, where the king conducted everyday government business. From here, turn left, or west, toward Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. You will recognize it immediately: a large two-story pavilion standing on stone columns in the middle of a rectangular pond. It was used for royal banquets and receptions and is especially attractive when reflected in the water.

Return to the central route and continue north into the royal residential area. Gangnyeongjeon Hall served as the king’s quarters, while Gyotaejeon Hall, directly behind it, was associated with the queen. Behind Gyotaejeon, look for the landscaped Amisan Garden and its ornate decorative chimneys.

Farther north, the palace becomes more peaceful and garden-like. Hyangwonjeong Pavilion is easy to identify as a small hexagonal pavilion standing on an island in a pond. Nearby is Geoncheonggung, the residence where Empress Myeongseong was assassinated in 1895.

To the east of this area stands Jibokjae Hall, King Gojong’s former library and reception hall, notable for its Chinese-influenced architecture.

Two museums are also worth visiting. The National Palace Museum of Korea, near the southern entrance, focuses on Joseon royalty and court life, while the National Folk Museum of Korea, on the eastern side of the grounds, explores traditional Korean culture and everyday life.

For a more atmospheric visit, consider wearing a traditional hanbok or attending one of the palace’s seasonal nighttime openings.