The Grandeur that is Gyeongbokgung

I can't help but miss South Korea at the moment. Now that it's officially springtime there and the weather is just perfect, not too cold but not too hot either. Also, I am marking that is has been 5 years since my last visit. 

One of my most favorite places in Korea would be the Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gyeongbok Palace (경복궁). I learned that "궁" or gung, means Palace in Korean. The Gyeongbokgung is a royal palace located in northern part of Seoul, the capital of South Korea.

Heungnyemun (The Second Inner Gate)

Gyeongbokgung was constructed originally in 1394 by King Taejo, the 1st king and founder of the Joseon Dynasty. The palace continued to expand under the reign of King Taejong and King Sejong the Great. Though the palace was razed by a fire in 1553, its restoration was under the helm of King Myeongjong. Sadly, through history, the palace was burned to the ground during the invasions of the Japanese in the year 1592-1598. It was however reconstructed in 1867 during the reign of Daewongun. But after the assassination of Empress Myeongseong in 1895, the Imperial Family never went back to the palace. 

During our stay in Korea, the palace was currently under renovation.

Our visit to the palace showed us the splendor and rich history Korea had to offer.

Interesting fact we were able to learn about Korean architecture, especially with the palaces, is that, if the eaves of the palace are colored, it means a female member of the Royal family is occupying that place, but if it's grey, it's either his Imperial Highness or a male member of the Royal family.

The palace, isn't just a place for tourists to visit and learn about the vast culture and history of Korea. But it also a location for the backdrop of most of their Korean Dramas. Looks familiar? I believe the Rooftop Prince (옥탑방 왕세자), was shot here.

I admire how they were able to reconstruct the living quarters of the members of the household of the royal family in intricate detail.

Even the restoration of the palace grounds is such a spectacle.

The palace has a lot of things to offer to both tourists and locals alike. From its rich history and vast culture, Korea never fails to leave this piece of memory behind to its visitors. I can't wait to go back to Korea next time. Especially now that I am learning their language and culture, I wouldn't have a hard time going around and re-visiting the place. I also can't wait to go back in time and get lost inside the palace walls. I hope to see the day though when the palace is restored to its former glory. The grandeur that is Gyeongbokgung.

If you plan on visiting the palace, it is located at:

22, Sajik-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

서울특별시 종로구 사직로9길 22 (필운동)

Admission fees are:

KRW 10,000

Homepage

www.royalpalace.go.kr (Korean, English)

 For more information about the place, you may visit: Visit Korea.net  for more details.

*photos were taken during our last visit to Korea (2009)