K-ETA: Exploring the History of Jongno, Seoul

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Jongno, Seoul is the center of Korean history.
Jongno, located in the center of Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has served as the center of Korea's politics, economy, and culture from the Joseon Dynasty to the present.

1. Gyeongbokgung Place

Gyeongbokgung Palace is not just an old building, but a place that contains the story and soul of the Joseon Dynasty. It was once the residence of the Joseon Dynasty and the center of politics and culture. Let’s take a look at the beauty and historical significance of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

This is where important royal events were held. The magnificent and meticulously decorated building is one of the most iconic images of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Built on a beautiful pond inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, this pavilion was where royal banquets were held.

Gyeongbokgung Palace was severely damaged during the Japanese colonial period. However, after liberation, it regained its former glory. This restoration process was an important task to preserve the beauty of traditional Korean architecture.

A visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace is an essential part of any trip to Seoul. In particular, if you wear Hanbok, the entrance fee is waived. It's a great way to experience Korea's traditional beauty. Gyeongbokgung Palace is also the best place to experience Korean history and culture. You can experience the life and history of the Joseon Dynasty firsthand.

2. Insadong

Insa-dong is a neighborhood where Korean traditional culture and art are alive and breathing. It is one of the must-visit travel destinations for domestic and foreign tourists visiting Korea. Insa-dong has many traditional teahouses, craft shops, and galleries. If you want to experience Korea's tea culture, enjoy a cup of tea at a traditional teahouse.

You can also browse and purchase a variety of souvenirs, including traditional Korean pottery, fans, hanbok, and calligraphy supplies. From traditional Korean food to modern fusion, Insa-dong is a gourmet’s paradise. Tasting Korean tea in a traditional teahouse is an experience not to be missed. Various traditional performances are also held every day in Insa-dong.

As you walk along the streets, you can come across various crafts that embody the beauty of Korea. Find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your visit to Korea. Insa-dong is a place where Korean traditional and modern cultures coexist. It is a special place where you can feel the diversity and depth of Korean culture. Experience the beauty of Korea for yourself!

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

It is a special place that makes you feel as if you have entered the Joseon Dynasty. This quiet village across from Jongno and Jung-gu in Seoul is home to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine. It is a place where Korea’s traditional lifestyle and architectural beauty stand out.

Bukchon Hanok Village is home to approximately 600 beautifully preserved hanoks. Many of these hanoks are still used for residential purposes, while others have been transformed into cafes, galleries, and guesthouses, offering a variety of experiences for visitors. This neighborhood, which was the residence of nobles and officials during the Joseon Dynasty, is considered an important cultural property due to its outstanding historical value and architectural beauty.

Visitors can rent traditional hanbok and stroll through the alleyways. Experience Korean traditional culture firsthand by drinking traditional tea or making traditional Korean crafts. Bukchon Hanok Village is a unique place to visit in Seoul. It is a beautiful place where Korean tradition and modernity coexist. A visit here will deepen your understanding of Korean history and culture. Find tranquility in the heart of the city.

4. Jongmyo Shrine

Jongmyo Shrine, founded in 1394, is a place where the king and queen of the Joseon Dynasty were served and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is not just a place, but a sacred space where royal ancestral rites are held.

The overall long and narrow shape reflects ancient Chinese tomb ideology and the Confucian values of the Joseon Dynasty. Jongmyo Shrine was recognized for its architectural value and historical importance and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

In particular, 'Jongmyo Ritual Music' is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. It has been a sacred place for the royal family for hundreds of years. Visitor entry may be restricted on special event days, so it's best to check the schedule in advance.

Jongmyo is a place where you can see Korea's Confucian culture and the history of the Joseon Dynasty. If you visit here, you will be able to feel Korea's deep historical background and traditions. Adding Jongmyo Shrine to your Seoul travel itinerary will definitely be a unique experience.

5. Samcheong-dong

Samcheong-dong is close to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village. It is a unique place where the atmosphere of old Seoul and modern charm coexist. Samcheong-dong has a different charm from Bukchon, where modernity and tradition blend together. It's easy to explore on foot, and you can experience Korean art in depth through various exhibitions.

Another advantage of Samcheong-dong is its unique cafes and restaurants. The cafes are renovated traditional Korean houses, allowing you to feel the traditional Korean atmosphere. The hidden restaurants serve international cuisine.

Samcheong Park and Inwangsan Mountain are close by, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk and rest in the city. Samcheong-dong is one of the must-visit attractions in Seoul. For unique cultural experiences and beautiful memories, if you are looking for the hidden charms of Seoul, a walk in Samcheong-dong is a must.

Jongno is a unique space where Korea’s past and present coexist. It is one of the must-visit travel destinations for both domestic and foreign tourists. Jongno is a place where you can experience both traditional and modern Korean culture, and it is being developed into a cultural center that represents Korea. It is the most iconic place to experience vibrant culture and history. It is definitely worth a visit for any traveler in Seoul.

Explore beautiful Jongno, Seoul with KOREA K-ETA. Apply for a K-ETA before visiting Korea. Applying for K-ETA right now is easy.