National Palace Museum of Korea

#cityplaybook If you're looking for an amazing, free way to dive into Korea's royal past, the National Palace Museum of Korea is a must-see. Tucked right by Gyeongbokgung Palace, this museum shows off the rich history of the Joseon royal family. I went thinking I'd just quickly see a special exhibit, but I ended up totally amazed by the main displays! This museum is fantastic because it's completely free! It's open almost every day, with longer hours on Wednesdays and Saturdays (until 9 PM). They only close three days a year, so it's super easy to visit. With so many cool old things to see, you really have no excuse not to go. Plus, they have a nice café (Cafe Sarang), a gift shop, and clean bathrooms. If you can't try traditional royal sweets elsewhere, Cafe Sarang offers some really pretty ones. The main exhibit, especially the "Royal Life + Joseon Kings" part on the second floor (where you walk in), is truly grand. You're immediately greeted by exquisite pieces like the daesamjak norigae, a large, fancy Korean ornament. You'll see beautiful things like Jinjujunang (Pearl Pouches) and detailed Garakji (Rings), showing off royal jewelry, and elegant Apkkoji (Hairpins) and different Binyeo (Hairpins), showing how royals did their hair. The grand Yeongchinwangbi's Jeogui (Ceremonial Robe), worn by queens, is fascinating because the patterns are woven into the fabric, not just stitched on. You'll also spot the incredibly heavy and fancy Daesumeori headpiece, covered in gold and jewels, and cute Cheongseok (Blue Shoes) that still look stylish today. The bright colors and gold designs of the Dangui (Ceremonial Topcoat) are a true work of art, and the pretty Bojagi (Wrapping Cloths) with awesome colors and patterns are like "Joseon's fancy wrapping paper." There are even special Norigae (Ornaments) with tassels made from single threads, and the mighty Myeonbok / Gujangbok, a ceremonial robe for kings. There's so much to see that you might not even get through it all in one visit! Even though it's over now, the "Court Ladies' Costumes" special exhibit (March 12 - May 11, 2025) was really neat. It featured clothes from the Uichinwang Royal Family, like Wonsam (Ceremonial Robes) and Seuran Chima (Skirts with Gold). I learned that the Daedae (Belt) had a hidden string to keep it from coming undone – smart! The detailed embroidery and unique, long Hwagwan (Flower Crowns) were also amazing. They had a great video that showed off all the little details even better than seeing them in person. So, whether you're at Gyeongbokgung Palace or just looking for a cool cultural trip, the National Palace Museum of Korea is a must-go. You can even imagine a "palace tour" from inside, so it's worth it even if you don't go into Gyeongbokgung itself. Don't miss out on seeing the amazing history of the Joseon royals! #seoultrip #historicallandmarks