If you’re interested in Korea, you’ve probably heard of the renowned Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was mesmerising and busy when I visited last year in the snowy season. However, some people actually prefer Changdeokgung Palace, saying it’s richer in history.
So, for the second weekend of activities with Asia Lab, we visited the large palace (as it’s our manager’s favourite).
Changdeokgung Palace, located in Jongno near Anguk station, is one of the best preserved out of the Joseon period palaces. It is loved for its beautiful secret garden, and is accompanied by other historical sites including a village and another palace.
Unfortunately, the weather had our umbrellas always open. But that didn’t stop us from enjoying the majestic palace. The crafted colours of red, green, and yellow brought history to life. Not only did we feel like royalty among the intricate details of the architecture and design, but I think we got the sweetest pictures together.
With so many buildings and pathways through the low arches, it felt like a maze to me. We saw ancient landscapes and gardens by stone walls that I can’t recall seeing anywhere else, and our manager told us stories about the times back then. (Imagine living in the Joseon dynasty as a woman and having to cover your face and not go out — especially so you can’t fall in love!)
Due to the rain though, we couldn’t visit the secret garden. Maybe next time…
After an eventful day, food was much needed to warm our bellies. We found a nice Korean restaurant near Anguk station, and I couldn’t be more happier savouring my Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi stew) and the chive pancake.
When our manager and one of the other interns had to leave, I went shopping at Daiso with the other two interns. Secretly… there was a place I wanted to visit that was nearby.
Less than a five-minute walk from Anguk station Exit 1 is the comic book shop (왕자 만화방) from True Beauty. I always enjoy watching the K-drama (yes, despite all the cringe), so it was cool to see one of the filming locations in real life, which is actually a clothing store. It was sadly closed when we went but the night picture reflected the K-drama well.
On our way back, we stumbled upon a photo booth. What else could we do but go in? It was calling our names. The pink walls were filled with 4-cut pictures and there was a mirror on one side. Once we selected a few headbands and glasses from the huge variety, we snapped our cute photos (and some mirror selfies of course).
My first hang out with these interns left wonderful memories. Although I’m leaving soon, I can’t wait for the next adventure in Seoul, discovering more about the culture and trying new things with my new friends.
Originally published at https://medium.com on February 22, 2024.
