Today I went to the Changdeokgung which is one of the main 5 palaces. It has Donhwamun which is the oldest gate among the 5 main palace's gates. The topic I want to talk about is the Gyujanggak and Juhamnu. This two-story pavillion was built by king Jeongjo which shows his love for studying and reading. The first floor, which is Gyuganggak is the king's library. It actually started as the king's library but it eventually became academic and political research institution of Jeongjo's reformative politics. And the second floor was called the Juhamnu. Kings also held various events and enjoyed the beautiful nature. Also the inscription on the gate of the pavillion says, "fish cannot live without water". This means that king cannot rule without faitful officials to lead the country. Changdeokgung had lots of beautiful buildings and features. I could understand why this palace was one of the UNESCO heritage. Thank you! |