경복궁 or Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Erected in 1395, it served as the home of the kings of the Joseon dynasty, the king's households, as well as the government of Joseon. Much of the palace was destroyed during the Imjin War in 1592 to 1598 and was left abandoned for two centuries. In the 19th century through the leadership of Prince Regent Heungseon during the reign of King Gojong, the palace was restored. During the occupation of Imperial Japan in the early 20th century, much of the palace was systematically destroyed. By 1963, the palace was declared a cultural property which prompted massive restoration efforts. Today, the palace is considered the most beautiful and most grand of the five palaces built by the Joseon dynasty.
한복 or Hanbok is the traditional costume of Korea. It is characterized by its wrapped front top, long high-waisted skirt and its typically vibrant colors. Koreans typically wear the Hanbok for formal or semi-formal occasions and events such as festivals, celebrations and ceremonies.
Tourists are encouraged to wear the Hanbok when visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was like traveling back in time during the Joseon dynasty. Hanbok is surprisingly comfortable.
What a pleasant surprise to see Filipino-Australian celebrity Anne Curtis on a photoshoot at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gorgeous!
북촌한옥마을 or Bukchon Hanok Village located on top of a hill just beside Gyeongbokgung Palace is a showcase of Korean traditional village. This neighborhood was traditionally the residential quarter of high-ranking government officials and nobility during the Joseon dynasty. In 2018, tourism authority established visiting hours and days to limit the number of visitors in the neighborhood. The neighborhood is in fact a live village with residents living in the houses. Visiting hours are set at 9 am to 5 pm for non-residents. On Sundays, the village is closed to non-residents.
명동 or Myeongdong is mostly a commercial area. Just take a look at the foot-traffic for tourists looking to shop and try out street food.
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped Japanese cake filled with red bean paste. Myeongdong is heaven for foodies. So much street food to try out.
One of the popular street food stalls in Myeongdong. Their specialty is roast lobster drizzled with cheese.
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This tour of Seoul takes you to all the major spots in the city that you shouldn't miss on a full-day bus tour. The tour visits Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, the Blue House, Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Bugaksan, and Myeongdong. Jump-packed day trip. I'm literally jumping! Book now with GetYourGuide
