20 Mar 2010, Posted by Matt in Historic Korea, Seoul, Video, 10 Comments

Deoksugung: Seoul’s Palace of Virtue

Built in the 15th century, Deoksugung Palace was abandoned for centuries until the years immediately pre- and post Japanese annexation of Korea, when it was the site of fascinating political intrigue and tragedy.

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01 Mar 2010, Posted by Matt in Festivals & Holidays, Historic Korea, Nature, Seoul, Video, 3 Comments

Seodaemun Independence Park

2010 marks the 100th anniversary of Japan’s annexation of Korea. During the colonial period, the Seodaemun Prison was used to detain, torture and execute thousands of Korea’s independence activists.

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19 Aug 2009, Posted by Matt in Historic Korea, Seoul, Video, 1 Comments

Independence Series: Tapgol Park

During the summer, Korea’s national flower, the mugungwha (무궁화) or Rose of Sharon, is in bloom across the city. And each year, August 15th is celebrated as Gwangbokjeol (광복절), or Korean Independence Day. But before Korea’s liberation, millions of Koreans participated in activities to free themselves from Japan’s brutal colonialism. And perhaps the most important site in that struggle is Tapgol Park (탑골공원), in central Seoul’s Jongno District.

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