경복궁, 보신각, & 청와대 . . . Sightseeing in Seoul
Seoul is a fascinating city with historical sites that tell about Korea’s past. I was only able get a snapshot of a couple of different tourist places. Aside from the Kimchi Museum and food, I didn’t really know much about Korean culture and history.
The Bosingak 보신각 located in the heart of Seoul is a large pavilion with large bell. Bosingak means street bell, houses this huge bell in a traditional two story structure. This structure resembles the architecture of ancient times as seen in Japan and China. Like Times Square in New York City and 101 in Taipei, Bosingak is the public site of the New Years celebration for Seoul and Korea. In fact, I wanted to head over there and experience the madness with everyone. But I was quickly shot down by Mr. B for even mentioning it. He said it is pure chaos there, with wall-to-wall people for blocks all around. This bell, first constructed in 1396, now only rings at New Years, once a year. At least I was able to visit the bell, but it was sure as heck cold… .
Gyeongbokgung Palace, first built in 1394, was the palace for King Taejo the first king and founder of the Joseon Dynasty. This huge compound feels similar to the forbidden palace in Beijing in size and magnificence. The large traditional structure, which housed government officials, residences, and buildings was the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Originally there were 330 buildings with 5,792 rooms, but over time wars and invasions have destroyed most of the buildings. Restoration efforts have rebuilt 40% of all the buildings. It appears that Japanese Invasions, first, and the Korean war have all at one point or another burned each of the great buildings. During the Japanese occupation during World War I, a couple of the great gates were moved and altered, to effect the symmetry of the palace grounds and the spirit of the Korean people. But in 1989, the Korean government began rebuilt the palace, starting with the gates.
Right outside of Gyeongbokgung Palace is the Sejong the Great 세종대왕 (1397-1450). Sejong the Great was one of the Kings of Korea who advanced Korea in Literature, Science, and the written Korean Language. He is honored with this large Golden Statue near the Gyeongbokgung Palace. You really can’t miss him, he is sitting in the middle of an island on one of the largest streets in Seoul
Located right behind Gyeongbokgung Palace is the Blue House – Cheongwadae 청와대. The Blue House is the home to the president of South Korea. The unique blue roofed house referred, simply, as the Blue House. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able go inside or near the house. I was only able to view from afar. I guess since the US has the white house, the Blue House has the name nomenclature.
Anyways, It was quite interesting to see these great sites in the winter, but I would have preferred nicer weather to enjoy them. I like the snow cover roofs, which offer a different perspective.
Bosingak 보신각 45-5 Gwancheol-dong, Seoul Wikipedia entry
Gyeongbokgung 경복궁 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea 02-732-1931 Wikipedia entry
Sejong the Great 세종대왕 Wikipedia entry
The Blue House – Cheongwadae 청와대 1 Sejong-no Seoul, South Korea – 02-771-9952 Wikipedia entry
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