article by Jeff Rosser, appeared in the Chosun Taekwondo Academy March 2016 newsletter
Gyeongbok Palace
Gyeongbokgung, or Gyeongbok
Palace, is the largest and quite possibly most well-known palace in all of
Korea. Located in Northern Seoul, this
palace stands as a reminder of the greatness of the Joseon Dynasty. Not only was it a palace, but it was also like
a city unto
itself and was one of the first major structures built in Hanseong,
modern day Seoul, which was the capital of the Joseon Kingdom. This palace was constructed in 1394 by King
Taejo who was the founder and first king of Joseon. Since its construction however, the palace
has been destroyed multiple times over the past 425 years by the Japanese. As a result, many of the buildings standing
today are newer restorations of the palace’s former grandeur.
Located in the Gwanghwamun
neighborhood of Seoul, this palace is easy to get to, is nearby numerous other
sites and museums, and features a breathtaking backdrop with Bugak Mountain
rising over the palace from the rear. To
get to Gyeongbokgung, take Seoul Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and go
to exit 5. The palace is closed every
Tuesday but is open on most major holidays.
About the author:
Jeff W. Rosser is a teacher, martial arts instructor, and writer in
South Korea. He’s a former AAU U.S.A.
National Karate Team member and has competed internationally in Karate and
Taekwondo. He also has over 24 years of
experience in Karate, Taekwondo, Hapkido, Ju-Jutsu, and Judo. He’s a columnist for Taekwondo Times (“The
Hidden Art”), a monthly contributor to Totally Taekwondo Magazine, and the
author of “Combative
Elbow Strikes: A
Guide to Strikes, Blocks, Locks, and Take Downs” published by Turtle
Press. Contact: karatekajwr@yahoo.com (Email), www.mawriter.webs.com (website)
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