Villamaniboc Report:Exploring Korea
The Palaces and Seoul’s Heritage
Seoul’s special lure and charm are its palaces with its traditionally classic breathtaking architecture, representing a colorful history of turmoil. It provides a glimpse of Korean traditional past before submersion into modernization.
The palaces still continue to be a source of enjoyment to Koreans who frequent the park-like grounds. Here you will meet the people in an informal setting, a people who are quick to laugh, frank and willing to be your friend, a people proud of their heritage, progressive and willing to keep it but also willing to share it with you if interest is shown.
Museums and Cultural Assets
Preservation and promotion of Korea’s historic treasures and cultural legacy have become an increasing concern in the development of its many museums.
To better understand the culture of rural Korea, a visit to the National Folk Museum is a must.
Located on the premises of Gyeongbok Palace which grounds display many remains of historical value, the museum exhibits patterns of life and working conditions from the earlier eras in an authentic lifestyle setting.
The gallery reviews the daily life, customs and traditions of ordinary Koreans from prehistoric to contemporary lives through its displays of cultural artifacts, images and other materials. The exhibition also showcases the typical progression from birth to death of someone born into the noble class. You will see scenes of a mother praying for a son, the way births were managed, the wedding process, the end of life and the memorial services offered to the departed by family descendants.
Shopping Paradise
Even though prices have inflated over the last several years, Korea is still a shopper’s paradise. It is best to visit first the major department stores in the downtown area where the prices are fixed and the quality is good. Then you can venture into the markets and test your ability to haggle. The oriental way is that neither the buyer nor the seller loses face.
Silk and silk brocades are two of Korea’s best bargains, and so are amethyst and smoky topaz which are considered good buys as these minerals are mined in Korea.
Lacquer ware has historically been a well developed handicraft. Whether it is only a tray, a jewel box or a gigantic wardrobe chest, the smooth red or black lacquer finish glistening in the light attracts all who appreciate beauty.
A visit to the nation’s busiest street is to wander into the shopping region of Myongdong. Crowds jostle and jampack the restaurants, entertainment houses and brightly displayed shops. Especially popular are the beaded blouses and sweaters and other clothing articles. Shoes, bags and men’s suits are likewise rated high on the list as bargain items.
With enough time, shopping spree will be an unforgettable adventure into the mysteries of Eastern culture blended pleasingly with the West.
Ginseng, The Panacea for Health
Ginseng in history remains the most widely known, most firmly believed in and most interesting of the herb medicines of the entire Orient. Traditionally, it has been regarded as a magic “cure all†for a gallery of complaints ranging from insomnia and toothache to malaria and even epilepsy, not to mention the ability to prolong life.
Korea is the prime source of the world’s supply of the best ginseng as the climate is thought to be most suitable. Five to six years are required to raise the plant to maturity while great care and expertise are needed in its cultivation. This elixir of life is Korea’s oldest export product.
The name of Korea or Koryo means high and clear, and is symbolic of the country’s towering rugged mountains, crystal clear blue skies and rushing streams which have earned the nation the nickname of “Switzerland of Asia.†It is a beautiful country with simple grandeur but a land of amazing contrasts and promises.
