Seoul Day 1: Gwanghwamun Square & Gyeongbokgung Palace
After stuffing ourselves with the nice cold patbingsu, we headed towards the Gwanghwamun Square (광화문광장) and Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) and pretty much spent a good portion of our afternoon there. First stop is Gwanghwamun Square. There seemed to be some sort of festival or flea market when we were there. There were people selling stuff on small tents around the square. There were also some kind of music performances happening. The mood were very festive all around.
After watching the performance for a while, we continue walking and found ourselves in front of the Gyeongbokgung Palace front gate. It’s very majestic. The colors, the architecture, the guards, the size of the palace. Speaking of size, we didn’t realize how big the place is. Well, we kinda know that it’s big, but didn’t realize how BIG the place REALLY is. We were there around noon, and I have to say with the sun and the rising temperature, walking around the palace drained our energy quite a bit. But since the palace is so fascinatingly beautiful AND big, I think it’s safe to say that the five of us have an experience that we won’t forget :)
After we passed through the entrance gate, this is the view we’re greeted with: