Photo provided to Shanghai Star.

Gyeongbokgung stands as a symbol of South Korea’s past and present. Judith Huang visits the palace and experiences history at close quarters.

Once the main palace of the kings of Korea during the Joseon dynasty, it was devastated by the Japanese during the years of invasion. Now, its restoration is a symbol of national sovereignty.

First built in 1395 by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty, the Gyeongbokgung, or Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven, is still opposite the seat of power in Seoul now, as the Blue House or Cheongwadae now sits on one of its former gardens.

The Blue House is the executive office and official residence of the South Korean head of state.

Gyeongbokgung is situated on a site with excellent fengshui, with Mount Bugak providing a backdrop to its elegant emerald green buildings. Fengshui is the art of geomancy that defines the flow of natural energy.

Guards flank Gwanghwamun, the main gate, and the hourly changing of the guard ceremony from 10 am in the morning till 3 pm is one of tourists’ favourite sights.

The atmosphere in the palace is serene and peaceful as tourists are absorbed into the spacious surroundings, scattering to different parts of the complex.

Walking past layer after layer of gates and courtyards, one is faced with a gradual ascent to where the king would have held court in imperial times, even as Mount Bugak looms in the distance.