There are five royal places from Joseon
dynasty (14~20C) in Seoul. Joseon dynasty built a few palaces in case of state
of national emergencies, and unfortunately, due to countless mega catastrophes,
royal families spent a lot more time outside of Gyeongbokgung Palace (main
palace).
Let’s worry about the poor fates of the
kings another time and question yourself which place you should go. For extremely
busy travelers do not have much time to visit all of them, we dedicated this
article.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
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It was ambitiously built as the main palace
of Joseon with its establishment, but the grand palace was not much of use due
to fires and wars. Despite a few kings tried to rebuild and move to the place,
subjects always went against on the account that the place has got evil power
that brings misfortune, and it was Emperor Gojong who built the place in late
19c. Having built as the main palace, its size and glamour overwhelms other
palaces. Since there are also national palace museum and folk museum in the
palace, it is definitely a top pick for those who haven’t got much time go
other palaces.
2. Gyeonghuigung Palace
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After Gyeonghuigung Palace was completely burned down during Japanese invasion (1592~8). This is the palace, the homeless king finally settled down. Though it’s a important place where many generations king actually lived, there is really not much to see today. Japanese took it into pieces during Japanese colonial era. Even if you have a lot of time, it would not be wise to visit.
3. Deoksugung Palace
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Since this palace was never a permanent
residence of royal family, it is somehow incomplete. However, there is
fantastic national art museum and top class Korean traditional music
performance is held on a regular basis (it’s even free). Located at the heart
of downtown Seoul, you could pretty much travel to all the important tourist
attractions on foot from the palace. If you are the master artist who loves
music and art, this is the place to go.
4. Changduk-gung Palace
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The UNESCO heritage is completely different
from other palaces that boast their magnificence. The palace buildings are
freely arranged in harmony with surrounding terrain. And there is this famous
Huwon (aka Secret garden) inside. Despite Huwon garden’s magical charm,
travelers are only allowed go in at designated time in a group, and it is
difficult to enjoy its’ beauty and tranquility to the full. It has got some
style distinctively different from newly built Gyeongbokgung Palace, maybe
because decedents of royal family actually lived until late 20C in this place.
5. Changgyeonggung Palace
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Traditionally, Korean palaces face south,
but Changgyeonggung Palace does not. Apart from this fact, there is nothing special
about this place. Since it is right next to Changdeokgung Palace, if you have
time and energy left even after the beautiful palace, you could go. There are
not many visitors. This less popular palace is actually a good place to take photos
or a walk away from buzzing travelers.
More S.Korea
Written by Gibbon
Born in Korea, he grew up in Korea, Indonesia, and Cambodia. This young self-appointed ascetic abandoned his university and is currently on his spiritual journey in search of true meaning of life roving from mountains to mountains. His weather-torn and hair-covered appearance with reminds of some mystical Bigfoot and he looks 20 years older than he is.
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