How was the Gyeongbokgung Palace built?

When visiting the Gyeongbokgung Palace it is important to remember the rich history surrounding the palace and the important role that it played in Korean history. However, due to various invasions and fires, a larger portion of this landmark has been destroyed, however, there are multiple restoration projects underway in order to return this landmark back to its original self. 

The Gyeongbokgung Palace and its Importance

The Gyeongbokgung Palace is a beautiful historical monument located just outside Seoul, towards the Nothern part of the city, standing tall in front of the Bugaksan Mountain. During the Joseon Dynasty, this palace served as the home for the royal family and teh seat of the government as well, stressing on the importance and historical significance placed on this cultural monument. For locals and tourists living in popular apartments such as the Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul, visiting the Gyeongbokgung Palace is fairly easy because the palace is less than an hour away from popular holiday apartments in Seoul. 

Traditional Korean Architecture and Intricate Design Elements

Korean architecture features a collection of design elements that make it unique while maintaining a sense of kinship to types of architecture found in other Asian countries such as Cambodia, China, and Japan. The structural design elements make Korean architecture aesthetically pleasing while retaining high levels of functionality, ensuring that nothing is gone to waste and that every tile has a purpose.

Symmetry - If you look at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can realise that it is symmetrical both externally and internally. This balance is not just aesthetical, it is symbolic of true balance and governmental hierarchy which is applicable to this palace given the large volume of importance placed on it and the royal inhabitants who once called this palace their home. 

Tiled Roofs - This is a recurring theme in almost every Asian country, because the tiled roof will help keep the structure cool during hotter days, and direct the rain away from the building during the rainy seasons as well.

Stone Platforms - These platforms are a good indicator of the importance each court and location both within and outside the palace. There is a proportional relationship between the height of the stone platforms and the importance placed on the individual/ individuals occupying the respective room. 

A Testament of Architectural Brilliance

Due to many years of wear and tear followed by multiple attempts to detroy the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the historical integrity of this amazing palace has been damaged significantly. However, through multiple restoration attempts, with the latest one starting in 1989 (planned to last forty years), the structural integrity and the natural presence of this landmark is being restored slowly. Although it will take a very long time to return to its former glory, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is a breathtaking example of Korean architecture and the value of long term architectural planning. 

Cultural Significance on Modern South Korea

The Gyeongbokgung Palace is a brilliant example of and testament to the resilience and strong will of the Korean people and the united strength it took to rise up against adversity and establish themselves as a powerhouse once more. There are beautiful ceremonies that take place at this palace as a reminder of an era that has defined and shaped the future of Korea. The Joseon Dynasty had a daily traditional changing of the guards ritual that is still re-enacted to this day, visitors can witness this glimpse into Korean history at the Gwanghwamun Gate. Alternatively, to literally get into the shoes of the people of the Joseon Dynasty, visitors are given the chance to rent a hanbok (which is a traditional Korean dress) and roam the palace and its grounds, pretending to be a part of an era long gone.