Gyeongbokgung Palace 1

Gyeonbokgung palace. The "place of shining happiness." Biggest and historically most important of the five palaces in Seoul. First big palace of the Chosen dynasty built in the 1390s. Mostly destroyed in the 1590s by Japanese invaders. Rebuilt to spec in the 1860s. Ongoing restorations continue today. The main gate, behind which is a series of walls and courtyards, each building or group of buildings has it's own walls and courtyards. top bottom
Standing in the same spot, going for some wide angle perspective. top bottom
Gyeonghoeru. I think entertaining was done here, but I can't fully remember what the dilly was. I was on my own here--Bosco was indisposed of (comination of previous night's beer and a Kalbi buffet lunch -- preserved eggs and chili paste are rather active ingedients). The subway system is large and inexpensive to ride. Had trouble making myself understood buying a return ticket to Bosco's hood (Gunpo, far south suburb, not really a destination for white people). The guy sold me the wrong ticket: you need your ticket to activate turnstiles both entering and leaving the system. Turnstile wouldn't let me out at Gunpo--siren went off, lights flashed. Dirty foreigner trying to beat the system. Couldn't get help. Had to jump the turnstile in the end. Which set the damn thing off again... top bottom
East courtyard, looking north. Stone pagoda on right is very tall and is in front of the National Folk Museum. top bottom
This peaceful and green spot has somber significance. It's the spot where the last Chosen Empress, Myeongseong, was murdered by Japanese assassins in 1895. Japan already had a military presence in Korea (thanks to the first sino-japanese war), but was keen to completely dominate. After the murder, the Emperor was then forced to install a pro-japanese cabinet. Japan's grip escalated until Korea was completely annexed in 1910, ending 500+ years of Chosen rule. Of course being "liberated" in 1945 lead to US occupation and then the current division between North and South. A lot of baggage for one little pagoda... top bottom
Dolhareubang from Jeju Island. Essentially, 14th century totems (note chinese characters instead of Hangul [Korean characters], which was introduced mid-15th century). These are parked outside the National Folk Museum (which was included with the 1000 won [85 cent] admission to Gyeonbokgung). Jeju and the surrounding islands are the only area in Korea where these were made. Jeju Island is also a big source of mineral water. The National Folk Museum was stuffed with the sorts of displays you'd expect. Cultural history from bronze age to 1910 (Japanese occupation). Displays on how to make kim-chi. The wonders of Hangul. 7th Century block printing. 11th century set-type printing. Money, clothes, weapons, tools, and traditions. top bottom

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