Seoul (서울) - South Korea
With over twenty million souls packed sardine-like into a metropolitan area smaller than Luxembourg, this is one of the most densely populated places on the planet, but for all its nonstop consumption, Seoul is also a place of considerable tradition and history. Joseon-dynasty palaces, displayed like medals in the centre of the city, proclaim its status as a seat of regal power from as far back as 1392; the ancient songs and dances of farmhands and court performers are still clashed out in a whirligig of sound and colour along the street of Insadonggil. A city with a hyper-efficient transport system, a negligible crime rate, locals eager to please foreign guests and an almost astonishing wealth of locally produced modern art. more at: www.roughguides.com
With over twenty million souls packed sardine-like into a metropolitan area smaller than Luxembourg, this is one of the most densely populated places on the planet, but for all its nonstop consumption, Seoul is also a place of considerable tradition and history. Joseon-dynasty palaces, displayed like medals in the centre of the city, proclaim its status as a seat of regal power from as far back as 1392; the ancient songs and dances of farmhands and court performers are still clashed out in a whirligig of sound and colour along the street of Insadonggil. A city with a hyper-efficient transport system, a negligible crime rate, locals eager to please foreign guests and an almost astonishing wealth of locally produced modern art. more at: www.roughguides.com
Gwanghwamun Square
Gwanghwamun Square is divided into six sections. At its center stands a statue of King Sejong the Great, the fourth and most respected king of the Joseon Dynasty and creator of Hangeul, Korea's alphabet; and a statue of Admiral Yi Sunshin, a naval commander noted for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) and a hero among Koreans. Other attractions include the popular 12.23 Fountain, a sculpture of Haechi (the symbol of Seoul), a flower carpet, and Yeoksamulgil ( or the "Waterway of History") on either side of the square. Gwanghwamun Square stretches out from Gwanghwamun (Gate), once the main gate of Gyeongbokgung (Palace), to Sejongno Sageori (Crossroads). This area was once Yukjo-geori (Avenue of Six Ministries), the center of Hanyang, which was the capital city during the Joseon Dynasty. Nowadays it is home to the Government's major administrative departments. Originally the area was a 16-lane roadway but in 2009, Seoul Metropolitan Government decided to create a landmark national square by transforming 10 lanes of the roadway into a public space where Seoulites could rest and socialize. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Gwanghwamun Square is divided into six sections. At its center stands a statue of King Sejong the Great, the fourth and most respected king of the Joseon Dynasty and creator of Hangeul, Korea's alphabet; and a statue of Admiral Yi Sunshin, a naval commander noted for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) and a hero among Koreans. Other attractions include the popular 12.23 Fountain, a sculpture of Haechi (the symbol of Seoul), a flower carpet, and Yeoksamulgil ( or the "Waterway of History") on either side of the square. Gwanghwamun Square stretches out from Gwanghwamun (Gate), once the main gate of Gyeongbokgung (Palace), to Sejongno Sageori (Crossroads). This area was once Yukjo-geori (Avenue of Six Ministries), the center of Hanyang, which was the capital city during the Joseon Dynasty. Nowadays it is home to the Government's major administrative departments. Originally the area was a 16-lane roadway but in 2009, Seoul Metropolitan Government decided to create a landmark national square by transforming 10 lanes of the roadway into a public space where Seoulites could rest and socialize. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Gyeongbokgung Palace
was the first royal palace built by the Joseon Dynasty, three years after the Joseon Dynasty was founded. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was located at the heart of newly appointed capital of Seoul (then known as Hanyang) and represented the sovereignty of the Joseon Dynasty. The largest of the Five Grand Palaces (the others being Gyeonghuigung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace), Gyeongbokgung served as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
The Turbulent History of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace continued to serve as the main palace until the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592 – 1598), when all of the palaces were severely damaged. It was not until about 1868 that the palace was reconstructed and expanded to a 410,000 square meter complex with over 500 buildings. Gyeongbokgung Palace flourished for several decades in this state until the Japanese once again demolished the palaces during their occupation of Korea (1910-1945). Most of the restored buildings were torn down, Gwanghwamun Gate was relocated and the Japanese General Government Building was constructed in front of the main area of the palace. An effort by the Korean government has been ongoing since 1990 to rebuild and restore the buildings that were destroyed during the Japanese occupation. This 40-year restoration project aims to fully restore Gyeongbokgung Palace to its original form in the next twenty years. Currently, the palace is open to the public and houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea. Although only about forty percent of the buildings have been restored, there are still many beautiful things to see at the palace. Some of the palace highlights have been noted below. more at: www.visitseoul.net
was the first royal palace built by the Joseon Dynasty, three years after the Joseon Dynasty was founded. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was located at the heart of newly appointed capital of Seoul (then known as Hanyang) and represented the sovereignty of the Joseon Dynasty. The largest of the Five Grand Palaces (the others being Gyeonghuigung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace), Gyeongbokgung served as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
The Turbulent History of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace continued to serve as the main palace until the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592 – 1598), when all of the palaces were severely damaged. It was not until about 1868 that the palace was reconstructed and expanded to a 410,000 square meter complex with over 500 buildings. Gyeongbokgung Palace flourished for several decades in this state until the Japanese once again demolished the palaces during their occupation of Korea (1910-1945). Most of the restored buildings were torn down, Gwanghwamun Gate was relocated and the Japanese General Government Building was constructed in front of the main area of the palace. An effort by the Korean government has been ongoing since 1990 to rebuild and restore the buildings that were destroyed during the Japanese occupation. This 40-year restoration project aims to fully restore Gyeongbokgung Palace to its original form in the next twenty years. Currently, the palace is open to the public and houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea. Although only about forty percent of the buildings have been restored, there are still many beautiful things to see at the palace. Some of the palace highlights have been noted below. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Changdeokgung Palace
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Constructed in the 15th century during the Joseon Dynasty, the Changdeokgung Palace Complex occupies a 57.9 ha site in Jongno-gu, in northern Seoul at the foot of Ungbong Peak of Mount Baegaksan, the main geomantic guardian mountain. Changdeokgung is an exceptional example of official and residential buildings that were integrated into and harmonized with their natural setting. The complex was originally built as a secondary palace to the main palace of Gyeongbokgung, differentiated from it in its purpose and spatial layout within the capital. Situated at the foot of a mountain range, it was designed to embrace the topography in accordance with pungsu principles, by placing the palace structures to the south and incorporating an extensive rear garden to the north called Biwon, the Secret Garden. Adaptation to the natural terrain distinguished Changdeokgung from conventional palace architecture. The official and residential buildings that make up the complex were designed in accordance with traditional palace layout principles. The buildings and structures include three gates and three courts (an administrative court, royal residential court and official audience court), with the residential area to rear of the administrative area reflecting the principles of ‘sammun samjo (三門三朝)’ and ‘jeonjo huchim (前朝後寢)’. The buildings are constructed of wood and set on stone platforms, and many feature tiled hipped roofs with a corbelled multi-bracket system and ornamental carvings. The garden was landscaped with a series of terraces planted with lawns, flowering trees, flowers, a lotus pool and pavilions set against a wooded background. There are over 56,000 specimens of various species of trees and plants in the garden, including walnut, white oak, zelkova, plum, maple, chestnut, hornbeam, yew, gingko, and pine. Changdeokgung was used as the secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung for 200 years, but after the palaces were burnt down during the Japanese invasion in the late 16th century, it was the first to be reconstructed and since then served as the main seat of the dynasty for 250 years. The property had a great influence on the development of Korean architecture, garden and landscape planning, and related arts, for many centuries. It reflects sophisticated architectural values, harmonized with beautiful surroundings. source: http://whc.unesco.org/
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Constructed in the 15th century during the Joseon Dynasty, the Changdeokgung Palace Complex occupies a 57.9 ha site in Jongno-gu, in northern Seoul at the foot of Ungbong Peak of Mount Baegaksan, the main geomantic guardian mountain. Changdeokgung is an exceptional example of official and residential buildings that were integrated into and harmonized with their natural setting. The complex was originally built as a secondary palace to the main palace of Gyeongbokgung, differentiated from it in its purpose and spatial layout within the capital. Situated at the foot of a mountain range, it was designed to embrace the topography in accordance with pungsu principles, by placing the palace structures to the south and incorporating an extensive rear garden to the north called Biwon, the Secret Garden. Adaptation to the natural terrain distinguished Changdeokgung from conventional palace architecture. The official and residential buildings that make up the complex were designed in accordance with traditional palace layout principles. The buildings and structures include three gates and three courts (an administrative court, royal residential court and official audience court), with the residential area to rear of the administrative area reflecting the principles of ‘sammun samjo (三門三朝)’ and ‘jeonjo huchim (前朝後寢)’. The buildings are constructed of wood and set on stone platforms, and many feature tiled hipped roofs with a corbelled multi-bracket system and ornamental carvings. The garden was landscaped with a series of terraces planted with lawns, flowering trees, flowers, a lotus pool and pavilions set against a wooded background. There are over 56,000 specimens of various species of trees and plants in the garden, including walnut, white oak, zelkova, plum, maple, chestnut, hornbeam, yew, gingko, and pine. Changdeokgung was used as the secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung for 200 years, but after the palaces were burnt down during the Japanese invasion in the late 16th century, it was the first to be reconstructed and since then served as the main seat of the dynasty for 250 years. The property had a great influence on the development of Korean architecture, garden and landscape planning, and related arts, for many centuries. It reflects sophisticated architectural values, harmonized with beautiful surroundings. source: http://whc.unesco.org/
Deoksugung Palace
is unique among Korean palaces in having a modern seal engraving and a western style garden and fountain. Medieval and modern style architecture exists together in harmony in Deoksugung Palace. The Changing of the Royal Guard can be seen in front of Daehanmun (Gate) and is a very popular event for many visitors. During the Joseon Dynasty, the royal guard was responsible for opening and closing the palace gate as well as patrolling around the gate area. Outside the palace is a picturesque road flanked by a stone wall which is much loved by visitors. Originally, Deoksugung Palace was not a palace. The Imjin War (the Japanese invasions in 1592) left all the palaces in Korea severely damaged. When King Seonjo (the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty) returned to Seoul from his evacuation, the primary palace Gyeongbokgung Palace had been burnt to the ground and other palaces were also heavily damaged. A temporary palace was chosen from among the houses of the royal family. This is the origin of Deoksugung Palace. King Gwanghaegun (the fifteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty) named the palace Gyeongungung, formalizing it as a royal palace. Since then it has been used as an auxiliary palace by many Joseon kings. In 1897, Emperor Gojong (the twenty-sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty) stayed here and expanded it. The modern buildings such as Seokjojeon (Hall) were constructed during this period. In 1907, the palace was renamed Deoksugung. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is unique among Korean palaces in having a modern seal engraving and a western style garden and fountain. Medieval and modern style architecture exists together in harmony in Deoksugung Palace. The Changing of the Royal Guard can be seen in front of Daehanmun (Gate) and is a very popular event for many visitors. During the Joseon Dynasty, the royal guard was responsible for opening and closing the palace gate as well as patrolling around the gate area. Outside the palace is a picturesque road flanked by a stone wall which is much loved by visitors. Originally, Deoksugung Palace was not a palace. The Imjin War (the Japanese invasions in 1592) left all the palaces in Korea severely damaged. When King Seonjo (the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty) returned to Seoul from his evacuation, the primary palace Gyeongbokgung Palace had been burnt to the ground and other palaces were also heavily damaged. A temporary palace was chosen from among the houses of the royal family. This is the origin of Deoksugung Palace. King Gwanghaegun (the fifteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty) named the palace Gyeongungung, formalizing it as a royal palace. Since then it has been used as an auxiliary palace by many Joseon kings. In 1897, Emperor Gojong (the twenty-sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty) stayed here and expanded it. The modern buildings such as Seokjojeon (Hall) were constructed during this period. In 1907, the palace was renamed Deoksugung. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village sits between the two palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Unlike other hanok villages, Bukchon was not created for tourists but it is a living village inhabited by Seoulites, comprising about 900 hanoks spread across 11 dongs (administrative sections). The reason there are so many traditional houses in this area is that many yangbans (people from the ruling class) lived here during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). With its recently-opened hanok gallery, craft workshop and hanok restaurant, the village is increasingly important as a center for culture and the arts. There are also a number of museums of traditional Korean culture including the Gahoe Museum, the Han Sangsu Embroidery Museum, the Museum of Korean Art and many more. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Bukchon Hanok Village sits between the two palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Unlike other hanok villages, Bukchon was not created for tourists but it is a living village inhabited by Seoulites, comprising about 900 hanoks spread across 11 dongs (administrative sections). The reason there are so many traditional houses in this area is that many yangbans (people from the ruling class) lived here during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). With its recently-opened hanok gallery, craft workshop and hanok restaurant, the village is increasingly important as a center for culture and the arts. There are also a number of museums of traditional Korean culture including the Gahoe Museum, the Han Sangsu Embroidery Museum, the Museum of Korean Art and many more. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Namsangol Hanok Village
is a collection of five hanoks (traditional Korean houses) from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), recovered from different parts of the city and relocated to the northern foot of Namsan mountain. The interiors of each of these five houses reflect owners from different walks of life, from the middle class to the yangban (who were mainly high government officials, noblemen and aristocrats).
Five hanoks and five important residents from the Joseon era
At Namsangol Hanok Village, visitors can see the hanoks of important figures from the Joseon era including the house of Queen Yun's parents, who was the Queen Consort to King Sunjong, the 27th king of the Joseon Dynasty; the jaesil (study) of Yun Taekyeong, King Sunjong's father-in-law; the house of Park Yeonghyo, the son-in-law of King Cheoljong, the 25th king; the house of Lee Seungeop, who was in charge of constructing Gyeongbokgung (Palace) and the house of Kim Chunyeong, a military official of the Joseon Dynasty. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is a collection of five hanoks (traditional Korean houses) from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), recovered from different parts of the city and relocated to the northern foot of Namsan mountain. The interiors of each of these five houses reflect owners from different walks of life, from the middle class to the yangban (who were mainly high government officials, noblemen and aristocrats).
Five hanoks and five important residents from the Joseon era
At Namsangol Hanok Village, visitors can see the hanoks of important figures from the Joseon era including the house of Queen Yun's parents, who was the Queen Consort to King Sunjong, the 27th king of the Joseon Dynasty; the jaesil (study) of Yun Taekyeong, King Sunjong's father-in-law; the house of Park Yeonghyo, the son-in-law of King Cheoljong, the 25th king; the house of Lee Seungeop, who was in charge of constructing Gyeongbokgung (Palace) and the house of Kim Chunyeong, a military official of the Joseon Dynasty. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Namdaemun Market - The oldest traditional market in Korea
is the largest traditional market in Korea with over 10,000 stores that line the streets around Namdaemun (Gate), the main southern gate of the old city wall. It boasts one of the largest distribution structures in Korea, providing local products, daily living essentials, food products, medical supplies and more to retailers and consumers across the country. Due to the wholesale nature of the market, shoppers can comparison shop for the lowest prices on all sorts of goods. Namdaemun Market is also packed with interesting things to see and eat, making it a popular destination for both locals and international visitors alike. So whether you’re looking for traditional oriental medicine or imported drugs, traditional Korean food or imported snacks, hanbok attire or a Halloween costume, Namdaemun Market is the place to go. Namdaemun Market first started under the reign of King Taejong (1367 – 1422, the third Joseon king) during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910), when the government built shops around Namdaemun and rented out the shops to traders. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is the largest traditional market in Korea with over 10,000 stores that line the streets around Namdaemun (Gate), the main southern gate of the old city wall. It boasts one of the largest distribution structures in Korea, providing local products, daily living essentials, food products, medical supplies and more to retailers and consumers across the country. Due to the wholesale nature of the market, shoppers can comparison shop for the lowest prices on all sorts of goods. Namdaemun Market is also packed with interesting things to see and eat, making it a popular destination for both locals and international visitors alike. So whether you’re looking for traditional oriental medicine or imported drugs, traditional Korean food or imported snacks, hanbok attire or a Halloween costume, Namdaemun Market is the place to go. Namdaemun Market first started under the reign of King Taejong (1367 – 1422, the third Joseon king) during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910), when the government built shops around Namdaemun and rented out the shops to traders. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong is Seoul’s shopping mecca and is a must-see for tourists, but it is not just a shopping destination; Myeong-dong is also a center of commerce, banking and culture with a daytime population of 1.5-2 million. For shoppers there is a mixture of street stalls and retail outlets selling everything from high fashion to casual attire as well as many Korean cosmetics stores offering high-quality products at competitive prices. Myeong-dong is very popular with international visitors and fills with Japanese tourists during the Japanese holiday period known as “Golden Week” which runs from the end of April to the beginning of May. Part of Myeong-dong’s popularity stems from the more affordable prices here compared to Apgujeong-dong and Cheongdam-dong. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Myeong-dong is Seoul’s shopping mecca and is a must-see for tourists, but it is not just a shopping destination; Myeong-dong is also a center of commerce, banking and culture with a daytime population of 1.5-2 million. For shoppers there is a mixture of street stalls and retail outlets selling everything from high fashion to casual attire as well as many Korean cosmetics stores offering high-quality products at competitive prices. Myeong-dong is very popular with international visitors and fills with Japanese tourists during the Japanese holiday period known as “Golden Week” which runs from the end of April to the beginning of May. Part of Myeong-dong’s popularity stems from the more affordable prices here compared to Apgujeong-dong and Cheongdam-dong. more at: www.visitseoul.net
N Seoul Tower
built in 1969 as Korea's first integrated transmission tower beaming television and radio broadcasts across the capital. Since opening to the public in 1980, it has become a much-loved Seoul landmark. The tower's main attractions include multi-colored digital art projected onto the tower at night, a digital observatory, a roof terrace, the HanCook restaurant, the n.Grill restaurant, and the Haneul (Sky) Restroom. N Seoul Tower's mountain surroundings on Namsan (Mt.) have made it a popular place to unwind for locals and tourists alike. more at: www.visitseoul.net
built in 1969 as Korea's first integrated transmission tower beaming television and radio broadcasts across the capital. Since opening to the public in 1980, it has become a much-loved Seoul landmark. The tower's main attractions include multi-colored digital art projected onto the tower at night, a digital observatory, a roof terrace, the HanCook restaurant, the n.Grill restaurant, and the Haneul (Sky) Restroom. N Seoul Tower's mountain surroundings on Namsan (Mt.) have made it a popular place to unwind for locals and tourists alike. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Tapgol Park
was the first modern park built in Seoul and the birthplace of the March 1st Movement against the Japanese occupation in 1919. The park is home to several national treasures including Wongaksaji Sipcheungseoktap (a 10-story stone pagoda) as well as statues and monuments dedicated to various patriots and resistance members who fought for Korean independence during the Japanese occupation. It is also the place where the Declaration of Independence from Japan was read at Palgakjeong (an octagonal pavilion). The park was once home to Heungboksa, a Buddhist temple, during the Goryo Dynasty period (918-1392). The temple underwent several subsequent changes and was later rebuilt under the name Wongaksa only to be destroyed during the Joseon Dynasty when Buddhism was officially repressed. In 1897, during the reign of King Gojong, the King’s financial advisor, John McLeavy Brown, proposed turning the site into a park. This was done and Tagpol Park opened to the public in 1920. more at: www.visitseoul.net
was the first modern park built in Seoul and the birthplace of the March 1st Movement against the Japanese occupation in 1919. The park is home to several national treasures including Wongaksaji Sipcheungseoktap (a 10-story stone pagoda) as well as statues and monuments dedicated to various patriots and resistance members who fought for Korean independence during the Japanese occupation. It is also the place where the Declaration of Independence from Japan was read at Palgakjeong (an octagonal pavilion). The park was once home to Heungboksa, a Buddhist temple, during the Goryo Dynasty period (918-1392). The temple underwent several subsequent changes and was later rebuilt under the name Wongaksa only to be destroyed during the Joseon Dynasty when Buddhism was officially repressed. In 1897, during the reign of King Gojong, the King’s financial advisor, John McLeavy Brown, proposed turning the site into a park. This was done and Tagpol Park opened to the public in 1920. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Jongmyo is a shrine housing the spirit tablets of the former kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine is a symbolic structure that conveys the legitimacy of the royal family, where the king visited regularly to participate in the ancestral rites to wish for the safety and security of the people and state. Jongmyo is the oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal ancestral shrines, with a unique spatial layout that has been preserved in its entirety. It was originally built in the late 14th century, but was destroyed during the Japanese invasion during the 16th century, and was rebuilt in the early 17th century with a few expansions made to the buildings thereafter. Jongmyo and its grounds occupy a 19.4 ha oval site. The buildings are set in valleys and surrounded by low hills, with artificial additions built to reinforce the site’s balance of natural elements, in accordance with traditional pungsu principles. The main features of Jongmyo are Jeongjeon (the main shrine), and Yeongnyeongjeon (the Hall of Eternal Peace, an auxiliary shrine). Other features include Mangmyoru, a wooden structure where the king thought about the ancestral kings in memory; Gongmingdang, the shrine to the Goryeo King Gongmin, built by the Joseon King Taejo; Hyangdaecheong, the storage building for ritual utensils; and Jaegung, a main hall with two wings, where the King and participants waited for the rites to take place. Jongmyo was built faithfully abiding by the Confucian ideology of ancestral worship and its ritual formalities under strict royal supervision, and still maintains its original form dating from the Joseon Dynasty. Traditions of ancestral worship rites – Jongmyo Jerye, are still carried out, together with the accompanying ritual music and dance performance. Construction and management of Jongmyo, and the operations of Jongmyo Jerye rituals, are all meticulously recorded in the royal protocols of the Joseon Dynasty. source: http://whc.unesco.org
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Jongmyo is a shrine housing the spirit tablets of the former kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine is a symbolic structure that conveys the legitimacy of the royal family, where the king visited regularly to participate in the ancestral rites to wish for the safety and security of the people and state. Jongmyo is the oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal ancestral shrines, with a unique spatial layout that has been preserved in its entirety. It was originally built in the late 14th century, but was destroyed during the Japanese invasion during the 16th century, and was rebuilt in the early 17th century with a few expansions made to the buildings thereafter. Jongmyo and its grounds occupy a 19.4 ha oval site. The buildings are set in valleys and surrounded by low hills, with artificial additions built to reinforce the site’s balance of natural elements, in accordance with traditional pungsu principles. The main features of Jongmyo are Jeongjeon (the main shrine), and Yeongnyeongjeon (the Hall of Eternal Peace, an auxiliary shrine). Other features include Mangmyoru, a wooden structure where the king thought about the ancestral kings in memory; Gongmingdang, the shrine to the Goryeo King Gongmin, built by the Joseon King Taejo; Hyangdaecheong, the storage building for ritual utensils; and Jaegung, a main hall with two wings, where the King and participants waited for the rites to take place. Jongmyo was built faithfully abiding by the Confucian ideology of ancestral worship and its ritual formalities under strict royal supervision, and still maintains its original form dating from the Joseon Dynasty. Traditions of ancestral worship rites – Jongmyo Jerye, are still carried out, together with the accompanying ritual music and dance performance. Construction and management of Jongmyo, and the operations of Jongmyo Jerye rituals, are all meticulously recorded in the royal protocols of the Joseon Dynasty. source: http://whc.unesco.org
Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The natural surroundings of the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, shaped by the principles of pungsu, create a delicate setting for the living tradition of ancestral worship and its associated rites. The royal tombs, with their hierarchical ordering of areas from the profane to the sacred, and their distinctive structures and objects, are an ensemble that resonates with the historic past of the Joseon Dynasty. source: http://whc.unesco.org
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The natural surroundings of the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, shaped by the principles of pungsu, create a delicate setting for the living tradition of ancestral worship and its associated rites. The royal tombs, with their hierarchical ordering of areas from the profane to the sacred, and their distinctive structures and objects, are an ensemble that resonates with the historic past of the Joseon Dynasty. source: http://whc.unesco.org
Seoul City Wall
originally built in 1396, surrounding Hanyang (present-day Seoul) during the Joseon Period (1392-1987). The wall stretches for 18.6km along the ranges of Bugaksan (Mt.), Naksan (Mt.), Namsan (Mt.), and Inwangsan(Mt.), and stands at average height of 7~8m. The Seoul City wall consisted of eight gates which were originally built between 1396-1398, but only six remain today. The North, South, East, and West gates of the wall are known as the “Four Great Gates” (Sukjeongmun, Heunginjimun, Sungnyemun, Dongeuimun), while the Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southwest gates are known as the “Four Small Gates” (Changuimun, Hyehwamun, Gwanghwamun, Soeuimun). more at: www.visitseoul.net
originally built in 1396, surrounding Hanyang (present-day Seoul) during the Joseon Period (1392-1987). The wall stretches for 18.6km along the ranges of Bugaksan (Mt.), Naksan (Mt.), Namsan (Mt.), and Inwangsan(Mt.), and stands at average height of 7~8m. The Seoul City wall consisted of eight gates which were originally built between 1396-1398, but only six remain today. The North, South, East, and West gates of the wall are known as the “Four Great Gates” (Sukjeongmun, Heunginjimun, Sungnyemun, Dongeuimun), while the Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southwest gates are known as the “Four Small Gates” (Changuimun, Hyehwamun, Gwanghwamun, Soeuimun). more at: www.visitseoul.net
Heunginjimun Gate
is designated as National Treasure of Korea No 1. The gate is more commonly known as Dongdaemun (Great East Gate) and it attracts people's attention with its exquisite and splendid appearance. It was the major eastern gate of the eight gates situated within the city walls built to protect Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910).
A fine example of Korea’s architectural heritage
Heunginjimun shows the delicate and sumptuous architectural style of the late Joseon period. The most unusual characteristic of the gate is that it has a specially built outer wall, Ongseong. Ongseong was built to prevent the gate from being seen and also served to protect the gate. Because of Heunginjimun is situated in a low and flat region of Seoul, the gate was an easy target for invaders. To compensate for this topographic weakness, Ongseong was constructed. In addition to the practical role of the wall, Ongseong is also a beautiful addition to the gate. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is designated as National Treasure of Korea No 1. The gate is more commonly known as Dongdaemun (Great East Gate) and it attracts people's attention with its exquisite and splendid appearance. It was the major eastern gate of the eight gates situated within the city walls built to protect Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910).
A fine example of Korea’s architectural heritage
Heunginjimun shows the delicate and sumptuous architectural style of the late Joseon period. The most unusual characteristic of the gate is that it has a specially built outer wall, Ongseong. Ongseong was built to prevent the gate from being seen and also served to protect the gate. Because of Heunginjimun is situated in a low and flat region of Seoul, the gate was an easy target for invaders. To compensate for this topographic weakness, Ongseong was constructed. In addition to the practical role of the wall, Ongseong is also a beautiful addition to the gate. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Bongeunsa Temple
a Buddhist temple founded in 794 during the Silla (one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea) period. The temple has more than 1,000 years of history and has many interesting historic and cultural features, including woodblock carvings of the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra). The temple is also a very popular tourist destination, offering various programs relating to traditional Korean Buddhist culture, in a variety of languages.
Treasures of Bongeunsa
Over its thousand-year history Bongeunsa has gathered many treasures. The Goryeo Cheongdongrueunhyangno (Bronze incense burner) is designated as Treasure of Korea No. 321. It was once a treasure of Bongeunsa and is now displayed in the museum of Dongguk University. The calligraphy on the Panjeon (Hall)'s hanging board is the work of Kim Jeong-hui, a scholar and famous calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty. The calligraphy was the last piece of work by Kim Jeong-hui, written three days before his death and it is highly praised for its purity and simplicity. Panjeon of Bongeunsa is the only building that escaped from a great fire in 1939 and holds more historical significance than any other building in Bongeunsa. It also stores valuable woodblock carvings of Buddhist sutras such as the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra).
The tallest statue of Buddha in Korea, the great statue of Maitreya Buddha
The great statue of Maitreya Buddha, at 23 meters, is the tallest statue of Maitreya Buddha in Korea and has become the pride of Bongeunsa. The construction started in 1986 and took ten years to complete. The courtyard where the statue is located is used for various ceremonies and cultural events. more at: www.visitseoul.net
a Buddhist temple founded in 794 during the Silla (one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea) period. The temple has more than 1,000 years of history and has many interesting historic and cultural features, including woodblock carvings of the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra). The temple is also a very popular tourist destination, offering various programs relating to traditional Korean Buddhist culture, in a variety of languages.
Treasures of Bongeunsa
Over its thousand-year history Bongeunsa has gathered many treasures. The Goryeo Cheongdongrueunhyangno (Bronze incense burner) is designated as Treasure of Korea No. 321. It was once a treasure of Bongeunsa and is now displayed in the museum of Dongguk University. The calligraphy on the Panjeon (Hall)'s hanging board is the work of Kim Jeong-hui, a scholar and famous calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty. The calligraphy was the last piece of work by Kim Jeong-hui, written three days before his death and it is highly praised for its purity and simplicity. Panjeon of Bongeunsa is the only building that escaped from a great fire in 1939 and holds more historical significance than any other building in Bongeunsa. It also stores valuable woodblock carvings of Buddhist sutras such as the Avatamsaka Sutra (Flower Garland Sutra).
The tallest statue of Buddha in Korea, the great statue of Maitreya Buddha
The great statue of Maitreya Buddha, at 23 meters, is the tallest statue of Maitreya Buddha in Korea and has become the pride of Bongeunsa. The construction started in 1986 and took ten years to complete. The courtyard where the statue is located is used for various ceremonies and cultural events. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Myeongdong Cathedral
is the very first Roman Catholic parish church in Korea. It is also the first Gothic building ever built in Korea and was designated as Historic site No. 285 in Korea. On the basement floor there is a small sanctuary where the remains of the martyrs are enshrined, and where visitors to the cathedral can pay their respects. Every May, Myeongdong Cathedral holds a cultural festival and the festival open to everyone. Seongmo Dongsan (St. Mary's garden), located behind the cathedral, is a popular place to take a stroll. The construction of the cathedral started in1982, the 29th year of Emperor Gojong (the last King of Joseon Dynasty), and was completed in 1898. Myeongdong was a place where the catholic community had gathered since the catholic faith was introduced into Korea. Since 1830, the Myeongdong area had been the center of catholic missionary work. The missionaries devoted themselves to the propagation of Catholicism secretly. In 1882, the 19th year of Emperor Gojong, Bishop Blanc purchased land here in what was then the Jonghyeon district with the intention to build a church. But he built an educational center here first. He started to consolidate the foundations of the cathedral building from 1887. The ceremony of laying the first stone was held on August 5, 1892 and finally the cathedral was consecrated on May 29, 1898. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is the very first Roman Catholic parish church in Korea. It is also the first Gothic building ever built in Korea and was designated as Historic site No. 285 in Korea. On the basement floor there is a small sanctuary where the remains of the martyrs are enshrined, and where visitors to the cathedral can pay their respects. Every May, Myeongdong Cathedral holds a cultural festival and the festival open to everyone. Seongmo Dongsan (St. Mary's garden), located behind the cathedral, is a popular place to take a stroll. The construction of the cathedral started in1982, the 29th year of Emperor Gojong (the last King of Joseon Dynasty), and was completed in 1898. Myeongdong was a place where the catholic community had gathered since the catholic faith was introduced into Korea. Since 1830, the Myeongdong area had been the center of catholic missionary work. The missionaries devoted themselves to the propagation of Catholicism secretly. In 1882, the 19th year of Emperor Gojong, Bishop Blanc purchased land here in what was then the Jonghyeon district with the intention to build a church. But he built an educational center here first. He started to consolidate the foundations of the cathedral building from 1887. The ceremony of laying the first stone was held on August 5, 1892 and finally the cathedral was consecrated on May 29, 1898. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
is the newest and most iconic landmark of the Korean design industry. Located at the center of the Dongdaemun area, the DDP will serve as a key venue for design-related shows and conferences, exhibitions, and other events and gatherings. Designed by world renowned architect, Zaha Hadid, DDP is the world’s largest atypical architecture. The DDP is compromised of five halls: Art Hall, Museum, Design Lab, Design Market, and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is the newest and most iconic landmark of the Korean design industry. Located at the center of the Dongdaemun area, the DDP will serve as a key venue for design-related shows and conferences, exhibitions, and other events and gatherings. Designed by world renowned architect, Zaha Hadid, DDP is the world’s largest atypical architecture. The DDP is compromised of five halls: Art Hall, Museum, Design Lab, Design Market, and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Cheonggyecheon (Stream)
is an 11 km long modern stream that runs through downtown Seoul. Created as part of an urban renewal project, Cheonggyecheon is a restoration of the stream that was once there before during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War (1950-1953), as part of the country's post-war economic development. Then in 2003, the elevated highway was removed to restore the stream to its present form today. The stream starts from Cheonggye Plaza, a popular cultural arts venue, and passes under a total of 22 bridges before flowing into the Hangang (River), with many attractions along its length. more at: www.visitseoul.net
is an 11 km long modern stream that runs through downtown Seoul. Created as part of an urban renewal project, Cheonggyecheon is a restoration of the stream that was once there before during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War (1950-1953), as part of the country's post-war economic development. Then in 2003, the elevated highway was removed to restore the stream to its present form today. The stream starts from Cheonggye Plaza, a popular cultural arts venue, and passes under a total of 22 bridges before flowing into the Hangang (River), with many attractions along its length. more at: www.visitseoul.net
Cuisine
South Korea’s cuisine is healthy, varied and spicy and reflects the country’s historical determination to remain independent from surrounding imperial powers. Food is a major part of Korean life and food presentation is very important. Traditional dishes are a source of great national pride as they are distinct from Chinese and Japanese food. The country’s cuisine reflects its cultural history, the land and its long struggle to remain independent from the strong imperial powers that surrounded the country through much of its history. Korean food is renowned for being spicy, flavoursome and very healthy: many meals are rich in vegetables while meat is used sparingly. Seafood is widely eaten with dried cuttlefish being one of the nation’s most popular snack foods. Meat is often grilled on a barbeque and short grain sticky rice is a staple in the Korean diet. Meals are often accompanied by a large number of side dishes. Garlic, soy beans, soy sauce and chillies are heavily used in Korean cooking. Noodles are also an important part of the cuisine and come in a variety of flavours. They are good for a quick meal.
Traditionally, Korean tables are set so that all dishes are served at the same time. The main dish is usually placed in the middle of the table with the many side dishes placed around it. Rice and soup are eaten with a spoon while chopsticks, usually made of metal, are used for everything else. Etiquette dictates that the spoon and chopsticks should not be held together in the same hand. more at: southkorea.angloinfo.com
South Korea’s cuisine is healthy, varied and spicy and reflects the country’s historical determination to remain independent from surrounding imperial powers. Food is a major part of Korean life and food presentation is very important. Traditional dishes are a source of great national pride as they are distinct from Chinese and Japanese food. The country’s cuisine reflects its cultural history, the land and its long struggle to remain independent from the strong imperial powers that surrounded the country through much of its history. Korean food is renowned for being spicy, flavoursome and very healthy: many meals are rich in vegetables while meat is used sparingly. Seafood is widely eaten with dried cuttlefish being one of the nation’s most popular snack foods. Meat is often grilled on a barbeque and short grain sticky rice is a staple in the Korean diet. Meals are often accompanied by a large number of side dishes. Garlic, soy beans, soy sauce and chillies are heavily used in Korean cooking. Noodles are also an important part of the cuisine and come in a variety of flavours. They are good for a quick meal.
Traditionally, Korean tables are set so that all dishes are served at the same time. The main dish is usually placed in the middle of the table with the many side dishes placed around it. Rice and soup are eaten with a spoon while chopsticks, usually made of metal, are used for everything else. Etiquette dictates that the spoon and chopsticks should not be held together in the same hand. more at: southkorea.angloinfo.com