Gyeongbokgung's palace is bordered by the folk museum at the north end, and the palace museum at the south end. The National Palace Museum, unsurprisingly, contains a collection of artifacts used by the royal family at palaces.
The royal seal provided the authenticity of decrees, and several are shown here.
An uncomfortable looking throne.
There are a few painted maps of cities and palaces which are quite impressive.
Decorative stonework and artwork.
Royal furniture with beautiful, detailed designs.
Decorative containers and goods; Korea is known for its lacquer ware with inlaid shells.
Ritual goods. This image is a good example of English signage - minimal. I recall being given an English pamphlet going into more detail.
Medals and more stamps.
Royal automobile.
There was some interesting wooden things in one room, including some giant machinery.
More maps and large art.
Royal instruments.
And more royal instruments. Dragging a stick across the white tiger's back creates an interesting sound. My mother has a couple wooden frogs that are similar in function.
Before the automobile, there was this. Sure, as king you didn't need to walk. But I imagine it being quite hot and stuffy in the summer, not to mention being quite cramped.
Being full of goods only the elite ever got to use, it's impressive and beautiful, but the
folk museum might be more interesting to me. There's no reason to skip either, though, because both are free and Gyeongbokgung Palace is certainly worth visiting.
Being located at the southern end of Gyeongbokgung, it's the first building you reach at the complex from Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) Exit 5.
The museum is opened weekdays 9:00-18:00 (closed Mondays) and weekends 9:00-19:00; admission is free. Right now, English tours are given at 15:00.
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