At my first announcement of moving to South Korea, many have asked "what is IN South Korea!?" ...Let me tell you my friends, that although South Korea is about the size (maybe even smaller) of the State of Washington...there are almost 50 million residents that live here compared to that of Washington State's 6.5 million.... Yes, thats right my friends, Washington's population is that of only 13% the size of South Korea's, with about the same amount of land! Not only that, the history of Korea's nation is extensive, and as you travel around the country the remains of the past life is still here, however it is surrounded by the new developing nation.
On our first weekend free in Seoul, my friends and I took the subway North up to the Gyeongbok-gu Palace. First built in 1394, and reconstructed in 1867, it is now surrounded by massive financial buildings, towering sky high apartment complexes, and modern sculptures. The name, "Gyeongbuk-gu" translates in English to The Palace of Shining and Happiness which is ironic since the Japanese nearly destroyed it in the 20th century. Now, only 40 % of the palace has been reconstructed allowing tourists like my friends and I to roam around the pavilions, courtyards, bridges, parks, king and queens quarters, and different statues inside. Also, every hour visiters are able to see the changing of the guards. This is an event that should not be missed as the royal guards change in front of the Daehanmun. This re-enacted ceremony demonstrates the golden era ruler by King where defense and patrol troops were responsible to ensure the safety of the King Dynasty.
Exiting on the back side of the palace you are presented with the "Blue House", also known as the Presidental House (similar to that of the white house!). Right in front of this prestigious house was a girl, located inside of a box..hmmm...was this security? This mysterious girl in a box remains a question to me...an unsolved mystery.
We decided to stop for lunch at a traditional bibimbap restaraunt. Tradtional eateries in Korea require guests to remove their shoes, and sit criss cross on the ground. I say Americans should burn their tables, eating in such a style is truley amazing!
After lunch, we toured around the Statue of the Admiral Yi Sun Shin, who is an admired hero here in Korea. Admiral Yi Sun Shin is known for his accomplishment of building the craftsman style "turtleship" in the 16th century during the Japanese war. This "turtleship" eventually prevented enemy troops from occupying Korea at that time. I am sad to say that I was unable to ride in a turtleship, as it sounds appealing.
Our next destination was Cheonyecheon Stream. Along this 5.8km stream, there are 22 bridges, and 9 fountains. Some history about the Cheonyecheon Stream, it was previously a freeway running on top of a stream but was turned into a famous location in Seoul.
We ended our day in a small college area, full of cute shops, cafes, and other eateries. I am now glad that most of you think there is nothing to do, or see in Seoul...because I get to find out all about this hidden gem myself...as they do call it, the Seoul of Korea.
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