I may have gotten a later start than planned but I did make my way to Gwanghwamun. The goal was to see as many Palaces as possible, as it turned out there was only enough time for one palace.
Wow, I thought I took a lot more photos than that. My first stop was Gyeongbukgong, there's literally Hanbok rentals on every corner, so you too can live your princess dreams. The grounds just incredible. If I'm remembering correctly, this was the last palace built, I know the King who built it ushered in an era of enlightenment, this era is also when Hangul was formed, the Korean writing style. Also this poor palace was destroyed twice. First the Japanese burnt it down, then years later during the occupation they tore it down. Slowly but surely the Koreans have been working to restore it to it's former glory.
Several parts of the palace were still under construction, but there was more than enough to see. I was actually s little daunted by the size.
I spent several hours there, I probably would have stayed longer, but I realized I'd forgotten my sunblock at home and wanted to reapply. So it was time to go, but since there was a museum right next door, I decided to stop in there, before searching for a convenience store.
There was so much, it would be impossible to take enough pictures. What I did learn was the Josen era was an interesting combination of tradition meets science and technology. There was also the introduction of Western Culture, which slightly influenced them as well. My biggest take away was the importance of knowledge to the Korean people, which I believe is still a marker today.
After a couple of hours, I headed off, I quickly located a Daiso where I got sunscreen and water. After checking the time I figured I had time for one more stop.
Namsangul Hanok Village, again I thought I took more pics. I was basically a park in which they relocated 5 traditional houses from all over Seoul. These give you a look into the daily lives of the people who once lived there. That day they were doing a bunch of kids crafts like making a bow and arrow, traditional cooking, dressing up in Hanbok. It looked like a really fun thing to do with your family.
In the center of the park is a huge time capsule that will be opened up one day, it's filled with 600 items that represent Seoul at the time it was buried. That's kinda of a cool thing right!
After a long day in the Sun I was ready to head home and hungry to boot.

Next to my house is the Rock-A-Doodle and spicy chicken sandwich spot. It made me think of my friend Nathan whose always going around trying chicken sandwiches. Anyways there was a waiting list to get a seat so it must be good. Totally was, I went with the Honey Butter that was a little rich for my taste but still very good. I'll have to try another one next time.
What Did I Wear?
A black tube top, hence the desperate need for sunblock, and some purple wide leg trousers by yours truly. No costume change today, unless you count putting on my jammies.
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