I visited Changdeokgung Palace for a special guided tour and entrance into the Injeongjeon, where the king's state ceremony was held during the Joseon Dynasty. In 1405, Changdeokgung Palace (East Palace) was built as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung Palace (West Palace). Unfortunately, in 1592, Changdeokgung Palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasion. It was then rebuilt in 1610 and served as the main residence of kings for the next 270 years. Changdeokgung Palace is also where Crown Princess Yi Bangja and Princess Deokhye lived and passed away in 1989; they were the last descendants of the royal family.
Injeongjeon is the central building of Changdeokgung Palace. While it is normally blocked off from the public to prevent damage to cultural heritage, the interior was opened for guided tours this month only. Inside are many assets and decorations symbolizing the king's authority, including a phoenix. This "bird of imagination" was thought to bring peace and harmony. The painting Irworobongdo (Single Panel Screen of the Sun, Moon, and Five Peaks) is also displayed behind the king's throne. Our private tour guide had us put our shoes in bags and slip on some soft slippers to enter the throne room, but this was a rare opportunity and experience I'll never forget!
I just bought a ticket for another K-pop concert—LE SSERAFIM's 'EASY CRAZY HOT' tour, so I'll be traveling to Inspire Arena again soon! Also, I'm planning trips to Busan, Jeju Island, and Japan! My friend John is visiting from Taiwan next week—I can't wait to show him around!
