When you first visit Gwanghwamun Square you will definitely feel the unique and highly valued history and tradition of Korea. Gwanghwamun Square is comprised of the breath-taking Gyeongbokgung Palace (one of my favorite places in Korea), the statue of King Sejong and the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin. All three landmarks are very important to the history and development of Korea, not to mention that they are beautiful to look at! The large golden statues, unique and bold designs, this place is heaven for those who love history. This was my first “trip” into the heart of Seoul. My friend (in the picture) was so kind as to show me around this plaza and he gave me a bit of history about each statue and the palace.
Here is a glance into each them; Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a Korean naval commander became famous for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Imjin war in the Joseon Dynasty. The mighty King Sejong the Great, was the creator of Hangeul (the Korean alphabet), and ruler during the Joseon Dynasty. Lastly, Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty, Gyeongbokgung served as the home of Kings of the Joseon dynasty, the Kings’ households, as well as the government of Joseon. Gyeongbokgung Palace is normally open everyday of the week for Korean Nationals and tourists to explore the inside, which can take up to 3 hours.
Gwanghwamun Square is a must see for all who are visiting Korea! It is a great place to learn about the history of Korea and to take memorable pictures. It was and still is one of my favorite places in Korea.
How to get there:
Directions
[Subway]
1) City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 & 2), Exit 3.
2) Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 6 & 7.
3) Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 1, 2 & 8.
* Connected to the underground exit.
For more information about Gwanghwamun Square please visit:
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=929909
The Wayward Explorer 