When visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, it's important to be prepared so you can fully enjoy the experience. Here’s a list of essentials to take along: 1. **Comfortable Footwear** 👟: You’ll be walking a lot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the palace grounds can be quite large and you might spend several hours exploring. 2. **Water Bottle** 💧: It’s always a good idea to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting on a hot day. There are water fountains available, but bringing your own bottle is more convenient. 3. **Sunscreen** 🌞: Gyeongbokgung is mostly outdoors, so sunscreen will protect you from the sun, especially if you plan to explore the gardens and open courtyards. 4. **Hat or Sunglasses** 🕶️: For additional sun protection, bring a hat or sunglasses to shield your face from harsh sunlight. 5. **Camera or Smartphone** 📸: Gyeongbokgung is visually stunning, so don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture, landscapes, and cultural ceremonies. 6. **Portable Charger** 🔋: If you're using your phone for pictures or navigating around, a portable charger will ensure you don’t run out of battery during your visit. 7. **Ticket/ID** 🎫: If you're visiting during non-public holidays (when there may be an entry fee), make sure to have your ticket or ID on hand. You may need it for entry or special discounts. 8. **Local Currency (KRW)** 💵: While most places accept cards, it's good to have some cash on hand for small purchases, souvenirs, or snacks. 9. **Guidebook or Map** 📖: A guidebook or a map of the palace can enhance your visit by providing insight into the history and significance of various buildings and landmarks within Gyeongbokgung. 10. **Light Jacket or Umbrella** ☔: Depending on the weather, a light jacket or umbrella can come in handy if it rains or gets chilly, especially in the evening. With these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and comfortable visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace!

BUS, SUBWAY

Coming from India, where every month brings a new festival and the whole focus is on celebrating with family, I was a bit disheartened to find myself alone in Korea during Chuseok. Hi, I'm Jeenu! 😊 I began my study abroad journey in Korea last August, and I still remember a heartwarming experience I had on Chuseok. 💭 At my dormitory, eight students from various countries were assigned to one shared hall. While we all came from different cultural backgrounds, we shared a common bond of being far from our families during the holiday season. Naturally, it was difficult to connect with others since everyone was busy celebrating Chuseok with their loved ones. This made us feel even more isolated. To beat the loneliness, we decided to embrace the concept of 'chingu-seok,' inspired by the popular show *XO, Kitty* — a fun way to enjoy the holiday with friends and experience Korean culture. 👫🎉 What better place to start than Gyeongbokgung Palace? Gyeongbokgung is one of Korea's most iconic landmarks, offering visitors a deep dive into the country’s royal history and culture. On Chuseok, entry is typically free, making it the perfect destination. 🏯 As we walked through the grand gates, we marveled at the beautiful traditional architecture and the stunning guards dressed in colorful attire. We explored the palace grounds, learning about the lives of the Joseon Dynasty kings and queens. 👑 The National Palace Museum of Korea, located within the palace grounds, offered us fascinating exhibits about Korea’s royal heritage. Tourists can also enjoy the changing of the guard ceremony, which happens at regular intervals, giving a glimpse of ancient traditions. 🛡️ The picturesque gardens, peaceful courtyards, and serene ponds provided a relaxing atmosphere for us to take in the beauty of the surroundings. 🌸 As we explored, we felt a sense of connection to the culture that made us forget the loneliness of being far from home, and instead, we created memories that we would cherish forever. 💖