Cartier's Contemporary Art Foundation's collection – Highlight - 2017 in Seoul Museum of Art next to Deoksugung Palace, Korea

The way to the Seoul Museum of Art to walk along the stone wall of the Palace, as for me, is always throb with a feeling of being quite different from going to another museum.

The stonewall path of old Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁), one of the Five Grand palaces, located next to the city hall and familiar with Korean, on the way to the museum gives a different feeling throughout the four seasons all year round and is beautiful in itself. The shade of trees made by the fresh green seasons, the feeling that when it rains and go this pathway under umbrella, even the raindrops in this place seem to be something different with other places, the stunning colored leaves in the fall, the tiles of the palace covered the white snow in the winter, all of this dazzle the way to the museum. I read an article about the opening of the Cartier collection in the newspaper and visit the museum in the Sunday afternoon.

On the way to the museum, as usual, people was making their beautiful memories while taking pictures in front of stone wall as the background. It made me feel better to see the scene. Fresh performances by Buskers on weekends lead the way to the museum more romantic combination. But to be wonder, I don't know why there is a popular myth handed down for a long time that if you walk on this stonewall walkway with lover, you will surely break up. Of course, many lovers were walking this way when I visited there looked as if they didn’t mind at all what it does.

Large roses were welcome me at the museum entrance. It’s the artwork with the name ”Rosy Life( La Vie en Rose)". This bold, huge rose bouquet made of FRP (Fiber reinforced plastics) material always welcomes me as usual like an old friend. I breathed in the utmost the air of museum as sat on a stone chair, as always, before entering the museum. The name of this stone chairs art is 'communication'.

I had a feeling that it was very familiar to me and comfortable each time whenever I visited. While searching for museum information to write this blog, I realized that this is also an artwork.

As I looked at the right side of the entrance door, a knight in a shiny silver armor was situated above eye level. I thought there was some consistency in artworks because the company supports this art foundation is doing business related to jewelry, so I was slightly worried for a moment that other works might have the same tendency. However, it was my perfect groundless anxiety. I lined up a line to join and it didn't take a long time to enter. It was able to appreciate for me it comfortably during the time because the staffs adjust the number of audience at a distance of time. I am not an expert in art, so I don’t like to see lots of artwork in a short time. To be sorry for the artists but I am just ordinary person. I am impressed at first, however as I go backwards, I become dull. So, I prefer the exhibition style not the dense exhibition form but a little far away spacing arrangement. In that sense, this exhibition gave me very comfortable moving line. Nevertheless, the level of the exhibits was so great and valuable that I continued to fill my curiosity with diverse art world.

"In BED"  by Ron Mueck
Oh, my. Awesome. He was lying in bed and resting so naturally. 

What his eyes say is ....

I read in the newspaper that the foundation would just support the artists but not interfere with the works of them. It seemed like that they are trying to take the high road. Well, how lucky we are to see these works for free! In addition, there was no limit for visitors to take a photo so they easily took pictures from various angles.

It was a great day for the art museum outing in a long time. I'd like to recommend not to miss this wonderful art world. It is now your turn for what you will see and feel. Be there and breathe in the air of art, please.

Cartier's Contemporary Art Foundation's collection <Highlight>

In where: At the Seoul Museum of Art(SeMA, 서울시립미술관) 1-3F, 

Duration: May 30 ~August 15, 2017. Monday off

How to get: Seoul city hall station (Subway line 1 or line 2) exit#2

.           .    Walk along the Duksugung Palace(덕수궁) stonewall walkway 

.           .    in 5~10 minutes.

Admission fee: Free
 

How much do you know about Cheonggyecheon stream(청계천) in the heart of Seoul? The more you know, the more you see!

Seoul is a complex and bustling city even for Koreans. Nevertheless, this city, the capital of the Joseon Dynasty for over the past 600 years, is a treasure trove of Korea's rich traditional culture. We are fortunate to have such a remarkable culture heritage so close to our everyday lives. Located in the heart of Seoul, Cheonggyecheon stream offers visitors a place to relax and create lasting memories. With its historic bridges built by our ancestors and modern structures that blend harmoniously with nature, it is a fascinating destination loved by both Koreans and visitors from around the world.

Cheonggyecheon(청계천) is well known as one of Korea's best-known tourist attractions for both Koreans and international visitors. However, if you are unfamiliar with its historical significance, you may miss much of what makes this place truly special.

At first glance, it may seem like nothing more than a peaceful urban oasis where people can enjoy nature in the middle of the city. In reality, however, Cheonggyecheon has much deeper historical and cultural significance.

Historically, the major royal palaces, important government offices, and the residences of the upper class were located north of the stream, while ordinary citizens mainly lived to the south.

Several bridges crossed the stream, and markets selling a wide variety of goods developed along its banks. In this sense, Cheonggyecheon served as a symbolic boundary between the upper class and common people throughout the approximately 500-year Joseon Dynasty. 

After the fall of the Joseon Dynasty and during Korea's rapid modernization, much of the stream was covered with concrete for several decades. About 10 kilometers of the waterway, stretching from eastern to western Seoul, were buried underground, and elevated highways were constructed above it beginning in the 1950s. Commercial districts specializing in a wide range of goods also developed around the area.

The new business hub street beside stream

 Following Korea's rapid industrialization after the Korean War, this area became one of the most heavily congested parts of Seoul. For nearly 50 years, traffic jams often lasted well into the night, making the area resemble a giant parking lot.

After years of debate and controversy, the Cheonggyecheon Restoration Project was completed, and the stream was reopened to the public in October 2005. Since then, it has once again become a cherished public space for Seoul's citizens.

Thanks to the environmental restoration efforts, people have gained a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. Older buildings along both sides of the stream were renovated or replaced, and many new buildings were constructed, giving the surrounding area a fresh new appearance.

As a result, the district has developed into a new business hub, particularly for international finance and high-tech industries, leading to a significant increase in property values. Today, Cheonggyecheon has become one of Seoul's most popular attractions, where modern architecture, history, and nature exist in harmony.

Make a wish in here so called ‘Trevi Fountain’ in the style of Korea.

Most people begin their walk at Cheonggye Plaza. As you walk down the stairs into the stream area, you will see visitors tossing coins into the Wishing Well, a small fountain located in the middle of the stream.

Often referred to as "Korea's Trevi Fountain," the Wishing Well is said to bring you back to Seoul one day if you toss in a coin and make a wish. Don't hesitate to make a wish and create a special memory. The coins collected from the Wishing Well are donated to programs that support underprivileged youth.

The first bridge you encounter after leaving Cheonggye Plaza once stood beside a marketplace where fresh fruits and vegetables were sold during the Joseon Dynasty.

In those days, when there were no public squares like we have today, this area served as an important cultural and social gathering place for ordinary people. The bridge was much more than a simple way to cross the stream—it was a place where people rested, met friends and neighbors, and spent time together as part of their daily lives.

The Gwangtong Bridge with beautiful relief

Among the many bridges spanning Cheonggyecheon, Gwangtonggyo Bridge is one of the most beautiful and beloved. In the past, various events and celebrations were held here during Korea's major traditional holidays. Today, it is also well known as a romantic setting in many Korean historical dramas.

If you look closely at the stone pillars and the beautifully carved stone reliefs along both sides of the bridge, you will notice that some of the stone slabs have been placed upside down.

These stone carvings originally came from the royal tomb of Queen Sindeok, the second queen of King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). Queen Sindeok played an important role in the founding of the dynasty.

However, she wished to see her own son succeed to the throne, which led to political conflict with King Taejong, the son of King Taejo's first queen. After the struggle for royal succession, Queen Sindeok's son died, and Taejong eventually became the third king of the Joseon Dynasty.

According to a well-known historical account, the beautifully carved stone slabs from Queen Sindeok's tomb were later reused during the reconstruction of Gwangtonggyo Bridge. Some of the stones were intentionally installed upside down, supposedly as a symbolic insult to the late queen ordered by King Taejong.

Whether or not this story is entirely true, the bridge is admired today not only for its elegant stone carvings but also for the fascinating history behind them.

The horse carrying King Jeongjo. In accordance with conventions, the King is not actually depicted in the painting but has been left blank.

Another highlight along Cheonggyecheon is the impressive tile mural depicting King Jeongjo's Royal Procession, created with more than 5,000 ceramic tiles.

King Jeongjo is remembered as one of the Joseon Dynasty's most capable and visionary rulers. He promoted political, cultural, and economic reforms in an effort to strengthen the nation. To commemorate his mother Lady Hyegyeong's 60th birthday, he organized a magnificent eight-day royal procession to visit the tomb of his father, Crown Prince Sado, and commissioned court painters to record the event in great detail.

The paintings vividly capture the atmosphere of the time. The relaxed procession, lively scenes of everyday life, and the expressive faces of the participants provide a fascinating glimpse into Joseon society.

King Jeongjo's family history was deeply tragic. His father, Crown Prince Sado, became a victim of political conflict and was ordered by King Yeongjo to be locked inside a wooden rice chest, where he died after several days. After Sado's death, the young Jeongjo was raised under the protection of his grandfather, King Yeongjo, before eventually ascending the throne.

As king, Jeongjo frequently paid tribute to his father by visiting his tomb, and this moving story has inspired countless Korean historical dramas, novels, and films.

Exhibition zone 

Cheonggyecheon Stream has long been a beloved place for the people of Seoul, and it continues to be cherished today. It is a vibrant cultural space where visitors can enjoy busking performances and a variety of live events, especially on weekends.

When I visited on a weekend, I watched a bubble show that lasted about 30 minutes. Thanks to the performer's humor and entertaining performance, the time seemed to fly by. The show was especially popular with children, who laughed and cheered throughout.

Another simple pleasure was enjoying a cup of coffee at one of the cafés along the stream. Take your time, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Since the walking trail is quite long, you may want to turn back at a convenient point or take a break to rest your legs before continuing.

One performer particularly caught my attention—a woman playing a musical instrument while singing. She reminded me of what it truly means to be an amateur. She made a few mistakes during her performance, but they only made me smile. In the end, technical skill did not seem to matter very much. What mattered most was how genuinely she enjoyed sharing her music. 

Watching her, I realized that being an amateur is not about lacking skill. It is about having the courage to enjoy what you love and to share it with others. Perhaps that is what happiness is all about.

Common Ground, Pop-Up container Mall in Seoul, New Attempt to the pioneering spirit

I stopped by a unique building that has been received spotlight as soon as they opened it thanks to the creative appearance. I met a fresh and unique shopping mall that is piled up with blue jagged containers reminiscent of jeans when I walked out of exit 6 of subway station. How great that who had an idea to make this building with lots of containers.  A fresh shock was coming.

Inside, the black piping of the ceiling was boldly exposed, and the black steel pillars and handrails were compartmentalized so that the products of each shop seemed to be more sophisticated and easy to focus. The goods kept whispering to take them away while watching the store. Prices were generally cheaper than department stores and seemed more expensive than neighborhood stores. 

I saw whimsical goods and unique and full of ideas products. I suddenly felt that my soul became to be free by the rebellious spirit in the twenties. We must go to this place.

The shopping mall was arranged on both sides of the square in the middle. There were several food trucks in the square. As I heard, on weekends, they use to perform flea market and various performances. I have seen this place in a music video of a famous girl group (SISTA) before.

On the roofs of both buildings there were properly placed with already well-known restaurants, cafes and not well-known but has own good reputation restaurants and cafes.

It is said that here was originally a taxi garage and a fashion company entered into an agreement with Ward Office and started to operate in the form of fashion, food and beverage, and complex cultural space from April 2015 for eight years. Young start-up designers and dealers were offered a cheap fee and a small deposit when they opened their shops. So, thanks to that, there are lots of ingenious and excellent quality products of mid and low-end brand shops for 20s. The content was as full of pioneering spirit as appearance.

In fact, this region was such and such a stagnant and uncharacteristic area, but with the addition of large department stores and shopping malls as well as the advantage of being neighboring the college street, this region has been loved rapidly. This place adds value to the region. I hoped that fresh attempts would produce good results.

How to get there; Take off the Konkuk university station (건대입구역 Seoul Subway line2 or line7) >> exit #6 >> walk 400 meters.

The Buam-dong alley(부암동) where wish to stroll, Seoul

If you want to take the old memory box out of your mind…

If you are the person who knows the value of small…

 Yes, maybe this is the right place you are able to get something.

Despite of the location in bustling Seoul, time in this small village seems like to be hold on in 1980s. Time at here goes slow by half beat pace than as others. The name of
 ‘Buam-dong(부암동)’ was derived from the big holy rock which was two meters tall, not present at this time in this village. There was a legend that people could have a sun when they rubbed the stone on this rock surface as much as their age and leave their hand, then at a same time the stone stuck to it. It means that they could get a sun luckily. This village is located in the west foot area of the Bugaksan mountain(북악산) near the Blue House, the official residence of the President of South Korea and also at the foot of Inwangwan(인왕산). This has been a Limited Development District so long time due to neighboring the Blue House for president. Ironically thanks to this reason, here becomes the unique village having nostalgia for past. What’s more, by the effort of many artists, this area has filled with various museums, traditional craft shops, historical heritage, cafes and bakery and so on. This is small one. It did not take too much time to stroll this beautiful and tiny attractions. You can take a rest at the tiny cafes here and there hidden in the alley.

The Mugyewon(무계원)

This Hanok, Korean traditional house,was built by reusing the materials of Ojinam Korean traditional commercial restaurant which was demolished in 2010 and opened in Mar 2014. The main building materials of Hanok(한옥) are wood, stone and soil. Hanok was constructed in accordance with the method such as building blocks of Lego when connect wood to wood instead of using nail. So it is possible to build other similar kinds of building by using again with former frame.

Garden of Mugyewon

The particular feature of traditional house is in the formation of its garden. In case of Korea, they do decorate trees and flowers along the wall but planting on the center in the garden. In the past people did pursue simplicity in gardening. They only enjoyed the far away scenery which could be seen from their yard, not owned it like seen photo. This site has a history that Prince Anpyeong, very intellect and talent prince of painter, scholar, musician and calligrapher in his time, dreamed the beautiful peach garden and found out this place seemed just the like the place where he saw in his dream. He let the famous painter AnGyeon paint a picture ‘The Peach Blossom Spring Land’ and built the pavilion in this point. This name was named after the pavilion’s name stated in here at that time. He was the prince in the early Joseon dynasty when everything was unstable. Maybe it was not comfortable for him to live as a royal family without authority. I guessed that the dream was maybe the reflection of his earnest wish for peaceful real world. My heart went out to him.

**Monday off, admission fee is free, www.jfac.or.kr tel 02-379-7131-2

 This space was reborn into the place of cultural center loved by the people. Several events and educational programs have been held such as experience of traditional tea, the humanistic education about Joseon Dynasty for citizens and visitor. I could hardly feel the age-long antique but I do not doubt that it would be someday.

The Chopsticks Gallery, Jeo Jip(저집)

The small gallery with white roof greets me at first because the position is on the low ground. You can reach out by crossing the crosswalk from the official resident center(부암동 주민센타) on foot.

This gallery was opened in 2013 by CEO Park to let all the people know the arts and Korean traditional culture of chopsticks. Various chopsticks in their color and shape are shown on the small dining table.

Chapsticks inlaid with mother-of-pearl

Something was inlaid with mother-of-pearl in its ends. Something was varnished with Chinese lacquer. It shows not glossy but soft elegant beauty. It is well known already by its functional superiority. It promotes to exercise the brain development. To many Korean, it was just a mere tool to eat the meal. In fact we are using the chopstick made of metal instead of wood in general. However it was pretty good to me to see another attempt. I would like to give it up for CEO Park who showed us new paradigm shift about chopsticks .www.chopstickshouse.co.kr tel 02-3417-0119(11am~7pm)

Let's try to move the soy by using chopsticks

 Buam-dong seemed to be somewhat like dopy and battered an old car. However maybe that’s the real charming point of this place like old clock. Many master lived this village because it is next to Grand palace and supplied the their remarkable craftwork to the palace. This was the famous zone for outstanding handicraft workshops since previous dynasty To buy the only one thing in the world at these kinds of workshop is additional pleasure to me. What did I buy? I bought nice, wonderful handbag at the leather shop ‘BLUE LIM’ located on the opposite site of the official resident center. You won’t be disappointed.  

Buam-dong street

How to get there

Gyeongbokgung station(Seoul subway line3 , exit #3) >> walk 150meters>>take Public light bus(마을버스)  no 1020, no 7022, no 7212( 6stops,takes 12 minutes) >>take off Buam-dong official resident center (부암동 주민센터)

Changdeokgung palace complex in Seoul,Korea, UNESCO World cultural Heritage

“My round of Joseon dynasty shall be different from the previous kings.”

The kings who eagerly dreamed a good and wise king than as before. The place where left their passion and anguish, I visited just the Changdeokgung palace complex.

The Changdeokgung(창덕궁), literally ‘prospering virtue palace’, is the palace of Joseon Dynasty which is the most beautiful, longest, being loved one to the kings and well preserved place at present time. Changdeokgung was designated on UNESCO World Heritage in 1997 with an outstanding exceptional example of Far Eastern palace architecture and design, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. With this historical and beautiful value, the first ladies of G20 visited this palace in Nov2010 during G20 Summits period.

The history of Changdeokgung palace and location

This was built as a secondary palace in 1405 by the order of King Taejong, 3^rd king of Joseon dynasty. It is located at the foot of Ungbong Peak of mountain Bugaksan in Seoul. It is named also ‘East Palace’ along with Chaggyeonggung because it is situated in the east side of Gyeongbok palace, the primary palace. Each complex is placed in harmony with the topography without regular system as contrast with the Gyeongbok palace which is overawed and authoritative by standing the line and symmetrical placement in flatland. Korea is mountainous country. As this reason, the kings might be more familiar than the flat main palace. All palace in Hanyang( today’s Seoul) was destroyed by the Japanese invasion (1592-1598). As talking of inauspicious side in Gyeongbok palace, Changdeok palace reconstructed and took over as a new royal court by the King Gwanghaegun until Gyeongbok palace rebuilt in 1865 and was used through several process of destroy and reconstruction till the end of dynasty( almost 500 years).

The distinct feature of Changdeonggung palace complex and Secret garden

Palace, up to 50000 square meters, is divided into front outer yards consisted of the governmental offices, royal private residential area and inner yards of the rear garden (secret garden).This dynasty was established by the base of Confucian ideology. The principle of it was “Humble and Simple”. It was also applied when the palace complex was constructed. However they did not give up their attempt to make it graceful and elegant instead of being glossy. Especially, garden area (rear garden, secret garden), well composed by pavilions, ponds, trees, oddly shaped stones and rocks shows outstanding view especially boast characteristic and beautiful harmony with nature. This has the feature of untypical aesthetic value of beauty.  People thought Gyeongbok palace as the inauspicious site in some side although it was the primary palace according to Fengshui principle, Chinese geomantic principles, many kings preferred to stay new Changdeok palace (창덕궁) from the beginning period of dynasty.

The vicinity of Donhwamun Gate(돈화문)

This is the oldest main palace gate, built in 1412 and reconstructed during the King Gwanghaegun period(in 1608), and is two stories building where bell and bass drum were installed for alarming of the time(not inside at present time). This was exclusive gate for the king when he went for the Jongmyo shrine where the royal family’s ancestral tablets were placed and ancestral rites were performed regularly during the Joseon dynasty. The gatekeepers’ quarter was changed into the stone wall at now. Besides, a new road was opened between palace and Jongmyo shrine in Japanese occupation period. So it is no more accessible as free as like the past, is true to get an very stuffy impression.

The Injeongmoon gate and yard(인정문)

captured by book Changdeokgung written Jongdeok Choi

After passing by the oldest Geumcheongyo stone bridge and one gate again, I reached at Injeongmoon gate. In front of this gate, in general, the coronation of a king was held concisely on 6^th day of the death of previous king because the throne couldn't leave it empty for long time after death of former king. For a moment, I visualized the ideal and passion of new king in my mind. This yard has the trapezoidal type instead of typical rectangular one. Maybe this was caused by the purpose of avoiding the mountain terrain leading to the Jongmyo shrine.

The Injeongjeonjeon Hall and vicinity(인정전)

This is the national treasure and main hall of palace. Official grand ceremonies like as audiences with ministers, reception of foreign envoys and so on were held. The external appearance looks like two stories building, but the inside is one story building having the glossy interior and high ceiling.

At the front, there were the king’s seat and the folding screen on the back of the chair which means the world of ruling by the king(painted the sun, moon, five peaks and two fast-flowing cascades usually shown in the historic drama in television). Present appearance was reconstructed in 1804 after several destroy and rebuilt. In 1900’, and thus it shows various  combined cultural elements by adopting the Western culture( eg, the light, curtain and gloss window was equipped and the clay stone floor was changed into wood).

The guardians of palace on the eaves (Japsang 잡상),
Korean traditional decorative coloring on wood ( Dancheong 단청)
Clay dolls on the eaves of tiled roof, Japsang (잡상,the meaning is several shape) which they are from the characters of Chinese novel HsiYuChi(journey to the West), are the guardians protecting the people from devil. Dancheong(단청), Korean traditional decorative coloring on wood building and artifacts, using only five colors( each color means; blue-east white-west  red-south  black-north  yellow-center), works not only as decoration role but also for practical purposes such as to protect building surfaces against temperature or insects and make the crudeness of materials less conspicuous.

left; Deumeu(드므)
 right;rank stones for officials and thin-layered stone plates on the floor

Deumeu(드므), the vessel keeping for firefighting water, has the symbolic superstitious meaning that fire devil surprised at his reflection image in the water and ran away. Officials stood in line according to their rank on the back side of the stone. The higher they are, the closer they are to the king. The civil official stood on the east side, the military one did on the west side. Thin layered stone plates being cut along the grain into 10~20-cm-thick slice on the front yard of this building makes this hall more prominent architecture. This type of stone prevented to slip down by the rain and to dazzle by the strong sunlight. Civil service literary examinations were held in this yard. Through the resurface the yard, now a day the stone was replaced with flat type stones, it diminished the scent of the past regretfully.

Huijeongdang Hall and Daejojeon Hall for the royal family residential court

Huijeongdang Hall(휘정당)

This was used for the king’s chamber at first, used for council in the later. This was rebuilt in 1920 by using the materials of the Gangnyeongjeon of Gyeongbok palace after destroyed by the fire in 1917. At that time, they adopted the style of Chinese in Beijing and Western style in many part of this building.

The flower steps of Daejojeon rear yard(대조전)

This is the official residence of the queen. Also many kings were born and died in here. The flower steps, in general, for the space of women, composed to plant flowers or trees on the sloping hill. (in Daejojeon rear yard)

The buildings for the rising sun; for the little crown prince

Heuiwooru(희우루) on the opposite site of secret garden ticketing office

Heuiwooro was the lecture room for the little prince and changed the purpose into the space of traditional doctor for caring the king later.

The Nakseonjae hall and vicinity, the nest of the young King Heonjong for his lover

Nakseonjae(낙선재)
These buildings, Nakseonjae(낙선재), Seokbokheon and Sugangjae, were built in 1847 for the royal concubine in King Heonjong reign. After his first queen died, he exceptionally attended the selection site for coming new queen. But his grandmother chose another girl instead of the girl who was fixed in his mind on. As the no prince was born in three years, he finally took the girl as the royal concubine. This vicinity was composed of humble, simple and in neat like the houses of the Joseon literati, but the hidden refine in places made me feel another aesthetic. The king spent the times with her at his rest time in Nakseonjae. Seokbokheon is the residential house for her on the next door. However, their dramatic love story did not last so long (just for three years only) because the king died of disease at the age of 22. She lived until 76 years old. Love like as the short spring time!

 the outside view sitting on the floor

ice pattern under the floor

The small wall for firefighting has the pattern of ice under the floor. 

The Secret Garden(비원), the most attractive destination of this palace

Huwon (rear garden),Biwon (secret garden) Forbidden garden( due to restriction area by the king) North garden (located on the north site). It has been named so many names as before. Present name ‘Secret garden’ was derived from the office name to maintain this garden in Japanese occupation period. However the name used through long period was the ‘Huwon’. They planted the flowers and broad-leaved trees, up to 26000 specimens of 100 indigenous trees, made many beautiful pavilions, lotus ponds and other architectures along the topography in each valley harmoniously. This was accessed from both Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung palace because there was no barrier between them in the past till Japanese occupation period (1910-1945). This is the palace garden where royal family members strolled and meditated in private. This was used also for venue for banquets, military drill, archery range and so on.

The ideal and vision of King Jeongjo, Buyongjeong, Pond and Juhamnu Pavilion

Buyongji pond(부용지)

In the pond, small islet means round sky and square means land . Buyongjeong(부용정),re-opened in 2012, is the architectural highlight of the Korean traditional pavilion.

Buyongjeong(부용정)

The cross-shape of the pavilion symbolizes the full blooming lotus and the two stone legs on the front part seem like man submerges his leg to the pond. The King Jeongjo rebuilt this one and changed it into present name. He invited high-ranking officials, made fishing, had their legs submerged on the pond, floated the boat and made poems. Person who did not compose poem in time dropped this small islet as a penalty for a short time. His father was killed in the rice chest by his grandfather King Yeongjo when he was a child. He wanted to communicate with all his heart to his officials and dreamed the new era of Joseon dynasty.

front; Eosumun(어수문) rear; Juhamnu(주합루)

The Juhamnu(주합루) of 2 story building located on the opposite site, is the site where preserved and published the books ( on 1^st floor) and discussed the knowledge and politics with young talented people(on 2^nd floor). The sign board of this entrance(Eosumun) contains his hope that officials show their ability in full in front of king as like fish meets the water. The era without political strife, he was a real good and wise king left many great brilliant achievement.

The Aeryeonji Pond 

Aeryongji pond(애련정)

In summer, this pond was filled with lotus flowers. It blossoms beautiful flower in the dirty soil pond. It symbols the men of virtue.

The Jondeokjeong Pavilion and vicinity

Seungjaejeong(승재정) from the Jondeokjeong(존덕정)

This was the pond of gourd-shaped bottle at first and reduced to this size resembling the Korean peninsula map shape. Along the line of this pond each pavilion boasts its beauty of itself.

Jondeokjeong(존덕정)

blue and yellow dragon ceiling and poem tablet in the right

The hexagonal pavilion of the double-layered roof and ceiling in blue and yellow dragon and  poem tablet of King Jeongjo. “ Small streams may shine under the moonlight, but there is only one moon”

The Ongnyucheon Stream and vicinity (Jade Stream)

Cheongui pavilion(청의정)

Cheongui pavilion is the place of rice seedling by the king and made the roof from straw cultivated in this field. Roof made from straw instead of heavy tiled roof is very impressive and skinny pillar and rafter looks very light like as slim girl.

The Yeongyeongdang Hall

This residential area having 120 rooms was built for the Jinjakrye ceremony of King Sunjo by Crown Prince Hyomyeong in 1828 and rebuilt in 1865. It has the style of household of the gentry despite of location in the palace area. King Sunjo lived here for a short year when he substituted his thrown into his crown prince. This has double zone for King’s quarter(Sarangchae사랑채 such as living room) and Queen’s quarter(Anchae안채 such as inner private room).

King's quart(사랑채)

Queen's quarter(안채)

Seonhyangjae(선향재) is the study having Chinese style side wall and Western style blind

Nongsujeong pavilion(농수정)

I love this palace which endures so long hard times.

Chinese Juniper tree 750 years old

Wonderful shot !!!
Those girls wearing Hanbok(Traditional dress of Korea)

Get the detail from their official web site. click here !!!