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Travel

Step Back in Time: 7 Traditional South Korean Sites Offering a Glimpse into the Past

AKP STAFF
Posted by ean1994 Tuesday, August 1, 2023

As we journey through time with captivating K-dramas like "Destined with You" and "My Dearest," set to premiere soon, and the recently concluded "See You in My 19th Life," you might find yourself intrigued by the allure of traditional Korea. If your curiosity has been piqued, here are seven essential traditional sites in South Korea you must not miss. Be sure to incorporate these destinations into your travel itinerary for a truly enriching and unforgettable Korean experience!

1. Gyeongbokgung: Of course, this location has to be the number one place to visit. The main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty is certainly a site to see. When you're actually in front of the palace, you'll be amazed at the scenery-- if you're wearing a hanbok, it feels like you're starring in your own drama.

2. Wolji Pond: Formerly known as Anapji, this pond isn't just perfect for wedding photos or aesthetic photos, but it has a lot of history behind it. Named because it's a pond that reflects the moon, you'll find that accompanying this incredible space is Donggung Palace. Whether you visit during the day or during the evening, you can guarantee you'll fall in love with this place.

3. Sungnyemun Gate: Serving as a guard gate of Hanyang, the capital of Joseon; what's interesting about this place is that the gate was actually burnt down in 2008 but restored entirely to its original form in 2013.

4. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Palace: If you're willing to travel a bit out of Seoul, roughly an hour away, you'll find yourself thrust into the olden times of Korea. This fortress is a tribute to King Jeongjo's filial piety towards his father. Not only that, but this fortress actually served as a national defense tactic.

5. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: Looking for beautiful scenery away from all the hustle and bustle of the city? Then you might want to visit this temple located along Busan's shoreline. Built back in 1376, this temple is home to various Buddhist treasures.

6. Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Hosting 230 traditional houses from the Joseon dynasty, this village has preserved many traditional Korean culture through its architecture. Also, right beside this village is the Nakdong River which flows around the entire town.

7. Buyeo: Alongside Buyeo, the cities of Gongju and Iksan hold a lot of historical treasures, for these sites represent the period of the Three Kingdoms in the Baekje Kingdom. You'll get to see Gongsanseong Fortress and even Songsan-ri royal tombs.

While many know of the typical traditional places such as Bukchon Village and Jeonju, it's also great to further expand your itinerary to include these places, too, for you'll witness a completely different beauty to South Korea.

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Quarantine-Army
Quarantine-Army2,059 pts Tuesday, August 1, 2023 0
Tuesday, August 1, 2023

I recommend City of Gyeongju to see the remains of the Silla kingdom and burial mounds.

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tyger11
tyger117,150 pts Wednesday, August 2, 2023 0
Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Nice article, thanks!

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