Gyeongbok Palace

It is James’ ambition in life to see all of the National Treasures of Korea while we are here. I think there are a couple hundred that are located throughout the country, many of them at various museums.

Heungryemun, the gate leading into the main palace grounds.

So we let James have another turn at picking what were going to do on the weekend. He chose the largest of the five palaces in Seoul to visit. The kids were not too thrilled at walking around and looking at the beautiful architecture of the buildings. Ben got a little more excited once I let him start videotaping everything. If anyone wants a copy let us know, however, be aware that it may cause motion sickness. We were able to see three of the National Treasures while we were there. Yes, that’s right, we were lucky enough to knock three off the list in one day. We really did have fun and are looking forward to seeing the other four palaces.

Guards in front of Heungryemun

Interior of Gangnyeongjeon, the king's living quarters

Hyangwonjeong on a small islet in the middle of a pond. This pond is located in front of Geoncheonggung, site of the assassination of Empress Myeongseong by the Japanese in 1895.