On May 21st,  2015, the KDI School organized a cultural field trip to Cheongwadae, Gyeongbok Royal Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong. This trip was a special opportunity for students to experience the beautiful aspects of Korean culture and history.

The group departed the school at 7:50 am and first arrived at Gyeongbok Royal Palace, also called ‘Gyeongbokkung’ in Korean. The name “Gyengbokkung” means ‘Palace blessed by heaven’ – and as the palace is situated against a beautiful mountainous backdrop, with Mount Bugaksan to its rear and Mount Namsan in the foreground, the site of Gyeong-bokgung Palace is at the heart of Seoul. In terms of traditional geomancy, it indeed was an auspicious location. It is arguably one of the most beautiful palaces in Korea, representing the Joseon dynasty.

The next stop was Cheongwadae, the executive office and official residence of the President of Korea. Cheongwadae, in English, means the ‘Blue House”- the two-storied granite presidential office is covered with blue roof tiles, from which the name of Cheongwadae was derived. It is comprised of the main presidential office, reception rooms, conference rooms and living quarters, along with annexes for Chunchugwan and Yeongbingwan, the Secretariat and Security Service Office. It had gardens and ponds in the front and back of the building, making it a truly beautiful, relaxing and comforting environment.

The group went on to the Bukchon Hanok Village which is surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine. The Bukchon Hanok Village, as the name implies, is a traditional village - a typical traditional neighbourhood and home to hundreds of traditional houses called ''Hanok'' that date back to the Joseon Dynasty.  The village’s narrow streets are a favorite of tourists when they move from one landmark to another. The name, ''Bukchon,'' which translates to ''northern village,'' came about as the neighborhoods that the village covers is north of two significant Seoul landmarks, the Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and teahouses, providing an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse oneself in Korean traditional culture.

The last location visited was Insadong, in downtown Seoul. This lively, charming area is filled with restaurants, traditional teahouses, and holds frequent outdoor performances on the streets. There is a lot to discover in Insandong, such as that it is one of the best places in Korea to pick up souvenirs. Korean traditional pieces, Korean traditional costumes, lamps made from traditional paper, craftwork handmade by the artisans and all kinds of items that are unique to Korea are sold here. These souvenirs are guaranteed to keep the beautiful memories of Korea fresh for a long time.

By Oluremilekun Akinyemi (2015 MDP, Nigeria)