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Gyeongbokgung Palace

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John Lamb
John Lamb
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4 out of 5
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3
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Gyeongbokgung Palace

  • June 6, 2007
  • Rated 4 of 5 by Chonan from Yakima, Washington
Gyeongbokgung Palace

In the early 1960s, a portion of the northern side of Gyeongbok Palace, encompassing the North Gate and several palace buildings, was walled off and designated a sensitive military installation, part of the defense of the Blue House, which is located across the street from the North Gate. For over 40 years, this part of the palace and a small group of buildings-relics from Korea's Joseon era—have been denied to the general public, but recently they have once again been opened to the public.

Three beautiful and unique buildings are the center of the recent reopening. They are Parujeong, Jibokajae, and Hyeopgildang, but collectively known as Jibokajae.

The central building, Jibokajae, made from bricks and timber, bears the unmistakable Chinese influence which was deemed modern during this period. The pavilion-like Parujeong was used as a reading room. The upper floor providing a beautiful view of the surrounding grounds and during the heat of the summer, the refreshing mountain breeze from nearby Bukhansan. In the years that followed the annexation of Korea by Japan, the buildings were relatively unused and unmaintained.

The buildings have been remarkably well-preserved over the years; their general disuse by the Japanese and later the Korean military aided in protecting them. Surprisingly, many of the original panes of glass are still there, and those that were broken have been replaced. Many of the interior walls and murals still maintain the luster or their original paint, while the outside walls and badly worn areas have been meticulously repaired and repainted.

The stone steps with their Haetae guardians are in excellent condition, but one must wonder how long they will remain in this shape as careless and disrespectful visitors walk upon their carved surfaces with little thought to their preciousness. Other palaces in Seoul do not allow visitors to enter the main rooms in an effort to protect them from damage, so it is laudable that the curators here are willing to allow the public to walk upon the rough wooden floors of Jibokajae (sandals are placed at the foot of the landing for the public use) and peer into the various sections of the building, but does it justify the wear and tear upon this precious relic?

There is a female custodian present, but her English ability is questionable, and she appears to be there mainly to warn guests not to use flashes on their cameras as they photograph the beautiful ornamental ceilings of the buildings. However, there are generally a number of young Koreans who, in an effort to improve their English, will attempt to answer any questions that you might have. Security does not seem to be an issue. There are a great number of plain-clothed riot police and security guards who are on constant alert due to the close proximity of the Blue House to this site.

Transportation to Gyeongbok Palace is extremely convenient with several bus stops and subway stations within walking distance.

From journal A Step Back in Time in Seoul, South Korea

Gyeongbok Palace

  • November 25, 2003
  • Rated 3 of 5 by Composthp from Singapore, Singapore
Gyeongbok Palace

The Gyeongbok Palace dates back 500 years. It was built by the founding king of Joseon dynasty, Lee Seong-Gye, in 1395. Some of the original buildings have been torn down during the Japanese occupation. There is an ongoing effort to restore the palace to its former glory. Geunjeongjeon, the main hall, where inquiries and morning sessions were held, has recently re-opened to the public.

Hours : 9am - 6pm (5pm in winter, closed on Tuesdays)

Admission (won) : 1000

How to get there:
Take the subway Seoul Line 3, Gyeongbokgung station then take a 5-minute walk to the palace.

From journal Winter Sonata

Gyeongbokgung (Palace)

  • October 21, 2001
  • Rated 4 of 5 by John Lamb from Colorado Springs, Colorado
Gyeongbokgung (Palace)

Get off at Gyeongbokgung Station on line #3 (orange). Exit #5 will get you there. The entrance fee is only 700 won (55 cents) and the palace is open everyday except Tuesdays. Gyeongbokgung was built during the Choson Period, started in 1395 by King Taejo. It then became the seat of the government. It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul. I loved being able to meander through the maze of beautiful, wooden buildings. It is like an Asian version of Verseille. The lily pond is a highlight as well as the pavilion, the largest in Korea. The palace is very relaxing and there is no rushing through with a guide, although guided tours are available. Definitely worth seeing.

From journal Visiting Seoul

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