Seoul - Cruising the Han River & Checking Palace (3)

The biting, whipping wind meant we only ventured out to the deck sparodically and a few seconds each time since it was winter. The sights of the city idled by as the ferry glided on. A big chunk of the passengers were shutter-happy Japanese visitors.

Is it possible to brag that you have seen Seoul without setting foot on the hallowed soil of its ancient palaces? We didn’t think so. Thus, off we went to Gyeongbok-gong. It was like stepping into a Korean period drama – the sandy paths, spartan interiors edged with luxurious draperies and cushions, crafted low wood tables etc… The grounds were vast and seem to have no boundaries. It offered glimpses of the rich, colourful history the metropolis possesses despite it being one of the most cosmopolitan, tech-savvy hubs in the world.
By Lydia Soh - Kozine Magazine, Feb-Mar 09