1.Topic: Stonework of Baekje

2. Writer: Hsu Yin Win

3. Short Explanation: Stonework of Baekje that we can see in heritage buildings

The prominent qualities of Baekje’s artistry are gentility softness and elegance. Baekje’s most renown structures that still exist today are stone pagodas. There are many heritage buildings regarding stonework of Baekje. Most famously five-story stone pagodas in Jeongnimsa temple, Naseong City Wall and stone pagoda in Mireuksa Temple have the distinctly smooth curves and elaborate patterns that cannot be found in other dynasties. We all can know stonework of Baekje from them.

4. Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draft:Stonework_of_Baekje

Topic - Korean Homeland Education 

Writer - Khin Thandar Win

Short Explanation- The Article is about “Korean Homeland Education and it is established to exchange and to cooperate on International Education of Oversea Koreans.  It is for cultivating practical Korean language skills necessary to understand the mother country and adapt to the future international society and for Fostering global citizens who will be active in the society equipped with broad knowledge as a Korean people by learning the history and culture of Korea.

Korean Homeland Education (K-HED)

Korean Homeland Education Program is hosted by Ministry of Education, National Institute for International Education. It is established to exchange and to cooperate on International Education of Oversea Koreans. And the Program is organized by the National Center for Korean Education and Culture, Gongju National University. It is a university that fosters secondary school teachers. The University established the Institution of Korean Culture & Education specializing in the education of overseas Koreans. The Institution is in charge of operating (classes and students) domestic education programs for overseas Koreans.

Educational goals

·        Cultivating practical Korean language skills necessary to understand the mother country and adapt to the future international society

·        Fostering global citizens who will be active in the society equipped with broad knowledge as a Korean people by learning the history and culture of Korea.

 Application Method

Entry Procedure

Special Benefits

Scholarships

• Scholarship of National Institute for International Education

Targets: Overseas Koreans who applied for a domestic education program for overseas Koreans and were recommended by a diplomatic office 

Selection criteria: Deliberated and selected by the ‘Scholarship Committee’ based on intent, potential for development, family background, and descendant of an independent patriot 

Financing: The tuition fee for the program (one course) and 70% of the round-trip air fare

Number of People Selected: Around 200 per year

• The number of scholarships per course can be adjusted according to the status of scholarship support and selection by application period

• In the case of a national scholarship, if the student fails to complete the course or receives disciplinary action for violating school rules, the scholarship student selection may be canceled. In this case, all scholarships must be returned.

Support for admission to a Korean university (graduate school)

• Provision of information and counseling on admissions to students wishing to enter a Korean university (graduate school)

• Admission briefing session and support for admission to domestic universities (graduate school): Customized guidance on preparation of application documents and application, self-introduction, interview preparation, etc.

• Support for major basic subject learning (support for major basic subject learning required for college mathematics: math, science, etc.)

• Auditioning and mentoring of university basic liberal arts courses

• Special lecture on understanding careers and majors, special lecture on leadership

• Mentoring with seniors entering college (graduate school), and tour of major universities in Korea

Operation of Partner Universities

Benefits for entering partner universities | When overseas Koreans complete the domestic education course ( invited education ) and enter a partner university, benefits such as credit recognition , Korean language course completion recognition , and scholarship for overseas Koreans are granted depending on the partner university.

Credit Recognition : Completion of subjects such as the Korean language , Korean history , and Korean culture in the domestic curriculum for overseas Koreans is recognized as college credit.

Korean language course completion recognition : Completion of the Korean language course in the Korean curriculum for overseas Koreans is recognized as the completion of the Korean language course for foreign students.

Scholarship for overseas Koreans : Scholarship support for overseas Koreans who have completed the domestic education course for overseas Koreans.

Curriculum cooperation operation |  Promotion of joint programs with partner universities to support higher education and career paths, such as exchanges with students enrolled in partner universities , and experience activities in specialized departments.

Exchange activities with university students : ・Auditing of liberal arts lectures 

                                                                               ・Joint projects with undergraduate mentors

Major-related department experience : ・ Experience of medical department 

                                                                  ・Experience of humanities, sciences, and engineering department

Visiting of Universities : ・ Entrance presentation and campus tour 

                                          ・ Special lecture to understand major

Partner Universities

※ For detailed cooperation matters for each partner university, please contact the person in charge of each partner university. 

※ The status of partner universities is subject to change.

Counseling and inquiries for domestic education courses for overseas Koreans

• Consultation on registration and curriculum (Korean National Education and Culture Center, Gongju National University)
  - Monday-Friday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

• Address: 753 Ugeumti-ro, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do, 314-712 (Okryong-dong) Gongju National University Okryong Campus Korean Education and Culture Center

• Tel: +82-41-850-6031 (Japanese, English, Chinese and Russian consultations are available)

• FAX: +82-41-850-6039

• E-mail: hansaram@kongju.ac.kr (Korean Education and Culture Center, Gongju National University)

Home Page 

 http://www.niied.go.kr/

http://www.kongju.ac.kr/

Topic - Korea Broadcasting Art School

Writer - WYNE THEINGI ZAW (다빈)

Short Explanation - English Translation of Korea Broadcasting Art School (한국방송예술진흥원) 

Link -https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korea_Broadcasting_Art_School

1.Topic-Top 5 Shopping Malls in Seoul

2.Writer-Aung Min Khant(아웅 민 칸)

3.Short Explanation-This article is about the "TOP5 Shopping Malls in Seoul" of South Korea.In this article,you can see about the eco-friendly,modern shopping mall of Seoul.I wrote this article not only to show about the shopping mall of Korea but also intend to express the great idea of South Korean in promoting the value of Nature.

Link-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draft:Top5_Shopping_Malls_in_Seoul

   Shopping malls are now existing as a prominent place in the configuration of Korea and other modern cities, affecting the daily activities and social relationships for the human beings.

       Like other cities,Korea is a magical place to shop for various kinds of products.Korea is known for its shopping and unique Cosmetic, Clothing Brands.One of the things to do in Seoul is probably going shopping.

   SEOUL,the capital city of South Korea has many biggest department stores and shopping malls.There are recently opened massive new shopping complexes, complete with indoor parks and quality restaurants,Library,Safe pace for Kids to attract customers and to give the complete comfort to their Customers.

   In this article,I will present about the "TOP 5 Shopping Malls in Seoul".

The Hyundai Seoul(더현대 서울)

      The Hyundai Seoul is the newest and Largest shopping Mall in Seoul.The Hyundai mall opened in 2021 and is located in Yeouido,Seoul.

      This Shopping mall has 12 floors and 8 levels are filled with about various 600 shops .Another 4 underground levels are already reserved for parking.It can be roughly concluded that Hyundai Shopping Mall covers a large area about the size of standard 13 football fields.In order to promote "The Value of Nature",49 percents of space are used as rest areas instead of stores place.

     After opening the mall in 2021,offers the visitors to have a chance to enjoy a relaxing and eco-friendly shopping experience in this modern Era.

   According to the title of a Korea’s first eco-friendly future-concept department store, The Hyundai Seoul has relaxation areas,wide paths with "natural grass, many dozen of trees, and various flowers".It modest and natured concept attracts a great number of visitors as a place for rest in Seoul’s urban center with a simple and landscape interior different from that of other department stores of Seoul.

   So, visitors can feel and relax with the impressive 2-storey indoor waterfall in the mall that stands at 12m tall. Even in the shopping time, they can hear relaxing sounds of the water crashing down from high.This sounds help to provide a calming and peaceful sensory experience to the visitors who sitting around the waterfall in the mall.

 Address:108 Yeoui-daero (Yeouido)

                  07335 Seoul

COEX Mall(스타필드 코엑스몰)

      Fashion,Food,Culture,Entertainment and all the things you need can be found only in COEX Mall.As the largest shopping mall in Asia,COEX Mall can provide everything you need,all in one place.

     Starfield COEX Mall,formerly known as COEX Mall,contains Convention Center, Exhibition Halls,many Malls in it.The mall is located in Gangnam-gu Seoul,South Korea.The store in the mall features trendy fashion in various designs targeted not only to young customers but also to people of all ages.

   There are also two food courts, where you can taste a great variety of foods.

    There are so many ways and things to relax and enjoy in COEX Mall.In your shopping time,you can enjoy a great shopping taste at COEX Mall.Moreover,if you are with children,COEX Mall even has an aquarium this might be a great place for children.

  The Starfield Library(별마당 도서관)offers a space to rest and entertainment with books.

    Also, for tourists and people who are interested in Korean culture ,Kimchi Museum is great for an educational experience and culture can learn there more about the history of Korea's most famous dish.

    Address:513, Yeongdong-daero,

                  Gangnam-gu,Seoul

Lotte World Mall(롯데월드몰)

     Lotte World Mall now stands as South Korea's largest Department store. Located in a crowded and civilized capital city of Korea,Seoul,sitting right beside Lotte World Tower is "Lotte World Mall".

   Lotte World Mall is a place where you can find and meet the latest trends fashion and high-end lifestyle for this fashion era.This mall draws thousands of visitors and shoppers daily.In this mall,you can find both Korea's Local Brands  and International Luxury Brands.

  For those who want to relax and take a rest at the same time,there also has various attractions and entertainment facilities in Lotte World Mall.Including Lotte World, Folk Museum, indoor ice rink, indoor swimming pool, bowling alley, sports center and even an aquarium.Lotte World Mall existence as an famous mall for its large aquarium."Lotte World Aquarium" is one of the largest aquariums of the Asian Continent. 

     So,we can conclude and surely say that Lotte World Mall is a hotspot filled with many activities and attractions in Seoul.

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

IFC Mall(IFC몰)

    IFC Mall is the "Korea's First International Style Mall", where you can find the famous global fashion brands in one place.It is located in the heart of Yeouido,Seoul.IFC Mall,the large indoor mall located on the B1-B3 Levels of the Yeouido International Finance Center(Yeouido IFC).

    It displays fashion on the first floor, fashion and book store on the second floor and on the third floor of the mall there is also a CGV movie theater for movie-lovers to enjoy while shopping.  It offers a wide range of famous fashion brands from Korea and abroad.Some of the well-known international fashion brands featured by IFC Mall include H&M, Hollister, Uniqlo, and ZARA.

   With international trendy fashion brand stores , movie theaters and elegant restaurants, , IFC Mall will make you to gain a convenient shopping experience in Seoul.

Address:10 Gukjegeumyung-ro, 

              Yeongdeungpo-gu,Seoul

Hyundai Department Store (현대백화점 압구정본점)

    The main shop of Hyundai Department Store is located in Apgujeong,Seoul.It is the center of Gangnam fashion.Since it's grand opening in 1985 ,Hyundai Department is one of the leading Department Store of Korea because of it unique selection of goods to lead a life in Fashion and express individualism.Also Hyundai Department Store is famous its supreme customer services from now on.

      Hyundai Department Store is not only for shopping.The rooftop of the mall is a sky park (garden) with wide lawn, bamboo trees, and birch trees,where visitors can enjoy  looking at the sky to take a rest from crowded society. 

Address : 165, Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

References:

https://middleclass.sg/travel/the-hyundai-seoul/

https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SHP/SH_EN_7_2.jsp?cid=1984968

https://en.trippose.com/shopping/ifc-mall

https://english.visitseoul.net/index

HANBOK (KOREAN TRADITIONAL CLOTHING)

1.Topic-Royal Tombs in South Korea

2.Writers-Khin Thandar Win(한다온), Hsu Yin Win(히루),Aung Min Khant(아웅민)

3.Short Explanation-This article is about the "Royal Tombs of Joseon Dynasty" in South Korea.Old Koreans built royal tombs to show their honor and respect to their ancestors. Nowadays,Royal Tombs standing as an unique Cultural Heritage of Korea.We wrote this article to show not only the History of Royal Tombs but also to express the custom of Old Koreans.

4.Link- https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:K_Thandar_Win/sandbox&section=2#cite_ref-2
 

         Royal Tombs in South Korea show the work of the ancient culture of Korean and civilization thrive.Old Koreans built royal tombs to show their honor and respect their ancestors and achievements and affirm their royal authority. Another purpose of building a tomb was to wish the interred a peaceful afterlife. Kings chose the locations of the burial sites by themselves while they were alive or by Pungsu experts’ choices after their death. Constructing the tombs needs lots of money, people and time. For example, it took over six months to prepare the body for funeral and thousands of workers were needed to build tombs and carry the body to the burial site.

       There are "three main parts" in royal tombs. They are the part around Jeongjagak that is the meeting point between the dead and living, the area just past the gate that is the space between the earthly and holy, and the sacred ground of the grave mounds. Apart from the burial mounds, associated buildings are also integral parts of the tombs. The tombs from Joseon era (1392-1910) completes the 5000-years history of royal tombs architecture in the Korean peninsula.

     There are some famous royal tombs among many royal tombs located in Korea. They are " King Sejong’s royal tomb"," King Jeongjo’s royal tomb"," Royal tomb of Royal Nobel Consort Uibin Seong of King Jeongjo'' and "Royal tombs of King Gojong and his wife Empress Myeongseung". 

The Great King Sejong(세종 대왕)

  Koreans credit King Sejong (세종대왕), the 4th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty who reigned from 1418 to 1450, as being one of the greatest King of the Joseon Dynasty. King Sejong and his wife Queen Soheon were buried together in the royal tomb. It’s original location was in Naegok-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, but relocated to Yeoju in 1468. The representation styles of King Sejong’s royal mausoleum is one of the best in the Joseon Dynasty. There have two headstones that show the king and queen have been buried together and 12 zodiac signs are inscribed on the 12 stone pillars surrounding the grave. An eight-sided hanging lantern is located in the center of the mausoleum. Also, a small house for offering sacrifices to the King and a royal kitchen for preparing food is below the mausoleum. Nearby this small house is a house where the guards used to stay and tomb stones have been constructed in the east of the sacrificial house. The design of King Sejong’s tombs is excellent and we all can see some of KingSejong’s greatest achievements in this place. King Sejong’s tombs are as authentic as historical sites. 

King Jeongjo of Joseon(정조대왕)

      King Jeongjo(1752-1800) was born to Crown Prince Sado and Lady Hyegyeong in Gyeongchunjeon Hall, Changgyeong Palace, Hanseong, Kingdom of Joseon. His birth name was Yisan(이산). 

     King Jeongjo is one of the greatest Kings of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea. King Jeongjo, the 22nd ruler of the Joseon Era, is one of the most respected and visionary rulers of this period.

    He is regarded as the "Reformation Ruler" in Joseon because of his attempts to reform and improve the whole nation and the renaissance. 

     He is also known for his love and kindness to his people and many innovations which he tried to bring to the Joseon Kingdom. 

       The most prominent action of King Jeongjo is an implementation of tangpyeongchaek(탕평책).  

     Tangpyeongchaek is an engagement policy toward rival factions, which was intended to give people equal footing in Politics. 

    He also Established Gyujanggak(규장각), an imperial library, which served as an important part of his reform efforts to improve the cultural and political stance of Joseon. Library also stood to lessen the power of various wealthy aristocrats, those who always tried to plague the Joseon Area.  Another of his greatest attempts is Hwaseong Fortress(화성), which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. 

        In 1800,King Jeongjo died in Changgyeong Palace at the age of 47. At first,King Jeongjo was buried on a hill to the east of Yungneung, then named Hyeollyungwon. But after the death of his wife, Queen Hyoui, his body was exhumed and moved to the Geolleung(건릉). It is one of the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE.It is located in Hwaseong City,Gyeonggi State of South Korea.

Address: 

21, Hyohaeng-ro 481beon-gil, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do 

경기도 화성시 효행로481번길 21 (안녕동)

Royal Nobel Consort Uibin Seong of King Jeongjo( 의빈 성씨)

   Royal Noble Consort Ui (1753-1786) was a beloved of King Jeongjo of Joseon and also the mother of Crown Prince Munhyo.

     She was born in 1753. Her personal name was Deok-im(덕임). She was the daughter of Seong Yun-u and Lady Im from Changnyeong Seong Clan. 

    In her age of 10, Lady Seong Deok-im entered the Royal Palace to be trained as a 궁녀(gungnyeo),means Court Lady who served the king and his family in the Palace. A few years after her entered,the

 Crown Prince Jeongjo confessed his feelings to her at the age of 14,but she refused it. 

       Lady Im's Palace Life is full of means. During her life as an Gungnyeo,Deok-im transcribed gwagjangyangmunro (곽장양문록)(comprising 10 volumes, 10 books)  to Korean , which was the Classic novel, with princess "Cheongyeon and Cheongseon", who were little sisters of Crown Prince Jeongjo and her fellow Lady-in-Waiting " Young-hee, Kyung-hee, and Bok-yeon." 

    In 1782, Jeongjo proposed to Lady Seong again. But, in this time She refused it too.But in the third time of his confession,she accepted Jeongjo's grace.She was the only woman who King Jeongjo chose willingly in his whole lifetime.Then, Lady Seong gave birth to the first child, Yi Sun (이순) on the same day, Lady Seong became a Royal Consort of King Jeongjo. 

     Her son Yi Sun was invested as an Crown Prince of Joseon in 1984. Then she became the first senior rank of Bin(빈).

and Jeongjo personally chose the prefix "Ui" (의meaning "appropriate/fitting") for her. Her Royal Title name become Uibin Seong(의빈 성). 

    After 2 years, Crown Prince Munhyo died at the age of 4 years. Four months after the death of her Crown-Prince son, Uibin Seong died during the last month of her fifth pregnancy in her age of 34.The unborn child died with her. 

   After her death,King Jeongjo wrote an epitaph for his beloved Uibin, where he described his grief and declared his love for her. It was said that Uibin Seong was the only woman he loved amongst his wives.Uibin Seong's mortuary was set up at Anhyeon Palace about 100steps from Her son,Crown Prince Munhyo and called those Royal Tombs as Hyochangwon(효창원).These two Royal Tombs are listed UNESCO World Heritage . 

Address: 

177-18, Hyochangwon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 

서울특별시 용산구 효창원로 177-18 (효창동) 일대     

Royal Tomb of King Gojong and His Wife Empress Myeongseung of Joseon (고종 대왕)

  Hongyureung (홍유릉) refers to the two royal tombs, Hongneung and Yureung, which are both located in the same historic, No.207. Hongneung is the royal tomb of King Gojong and His Wife Empress Myeongseung.

      King Gojong was born on 8 September 1952 from Heungseon Daewongun and Grand Internal Princess Consort Sunmok of the Yeoheung Min Clan. He was ruled as a regent in early 1864 when he was twelve years old. King Gojong was the 26 ruler and the last king of Jeseon. In 1897, he declared Korea to be the “ Daehan Empire” and became the first emperor of Korea. In 1919, Emperor Gojong died in Deoksugung Palace at the age of 67.

       Empress Myeongseong, known informally as Queen Min, was the first official wife of King Gojong. She was born on 17 November 1851 from Min Chi rok, Internal Prince Yeoseong and Internal Princess Consort Hansan Yi clan. She Became the empress in 1866. At that time, Korea was not actually governed by King Gojong, but by his father, Heungseon Daewongun. In 1873, when King Gojong began to administer state affairs, Empress Myeongseung exercised considerable power and deeply participated in political affairs. At that time, Korea was under the pressure of Japan and the government of Meiji Japan considered Empress Myeongseung an obstacle to its overseas expansion. Her diplomatic policy was in obvious favour of Russia and that angered Japan. That’s why she was killed by Japanese assassins in 1895.

     At first, Hongneung was the tomb of Empress Myeongseung, and it was located in Cheongnyangni, Seoul. When Emperor Gojing died, he was buried together with the previously deceased empress and the tomb was moved to its current place.

        The tomb of them, Hongneung, looks different from other royal tombs. Moreover, the tomb of the emperor was modeled after the tomb of the Ming dynasty’s ruler, King Taizu ( Zhu Yuanzhang). The current status of Hongneung tomb is Historic No. 207 and was designated on May 26, 1970. The difference of hongneung is that surrounding the Hongneung tomb is statues carved in the shape of animals such as giraffes, elephants, and lions, which can’t be seen at the other royal tombs of the Joseon dynasty. Therefore, the stonework of Hongneung tomb was made in a traditional way and one of the UNESCO World Heritage. You can visit there from 9:00 – 18:00 in February – May and September – October, and from November – August, the opening hours are from 9:00 – 18:30, 9:00 -17:30 from November – Januaryand closed on every Monday. You can visit within one hour and you can buy a ticket one hour before closing. The admission fees are divided into two types. If the visitors come in individual, 1000 Won for adults and 500 Won for children or in groups type, 800 Won for adults and 400 Won for children. The visitors can get free admission who are preschoolers ( age 6 years and younger), senior citizens ( age 65 years and older), the one wearing hanbok and on culture day ( last Wednesday of the month).

Address : 352-1, Hongyureung-ro, Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do

경기도 남양주시 홍유릉로 352-1.

Transportation : Subway Line 1, Cheongnyangni Station, Exit 4; take bus 165-3, 2227, 30, 65, 165, 9201, 9205, 330-1, 765, or 3330.

 References 

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1319/

https://www.yeoju.go.kr/culture/content/view/2/menu/2582?contentIdx=159&lang=en

https://grand.ggtour.or.kr/En/Grand/tour_view.php?tsort=20&msort=24&list_type=1&no=388&no2=3

http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=779495

1. Topic - 5 Grand Royal Palaces in Seoul

2.Writers - Wyne Theingi Zaw(다빈), Thadar Soe (다다), Yoon Pyae Pyae (윤희)

3.Short Explanation - This article is about 5 royal palaces, in Seoul, which represents the fascinating history and culture of South Korea.

4. Link -

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, has plenty to offer those looking for a variety of historical, cultural experiences and adventures. While its entertainment industry has become a key attraction for tourists, the 5 Grand Palaces still remain a must-visit for travelers who want to explore the endless history of South Korea. The 5 Grand Palaces are Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace and Gyeonghuigung Palace. Travelers can have a taste of a mix of Korean culture and history as each of them offer their own unique traits to check out.

One tip to know before visiting these palaces is to wear a Korean Traditional attire, hanbok, to get free entry and many rental places can be found near the entrances.

1) Gyeongbokgung Palace(hangeul: 경복궁)

• Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

• Operation Time: 09:00 - 17:00/18:30 (Hours vary by season) *closed Tuesdays*

Gyeongbokgung Palace was originally established in 1395 and is commonly known as either ‘‘the Northern Palace’’ or “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven '' because of its fortuitous placement between Bugak Mountain and Namsan. Even though the palace was destroyed due to the Japanese invasions in the 1590s, over 500 buildings were completely rebuilt in 1867. It is one of the most glorious and magnificent of all the 5 palaces in Seoul while also being the historically most important. In the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum, the visitors can learn about how citizens have lived in the past and present including the lifestyles and traditions of everyday Korean people. Nowadays, there are many major events held at Gyeongbokgung Palace such as ‘’the changing of the royal guards ceremony’’, and ‘’the traditional tea ceremony’’ where you can experience tea culture demonstration, making honey cakes and traditional etiquette.

2) Deoksugung Palace (hangeul: 덕수궁)

• Address: 99, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

• Hours of Operation: Daily 09:00 - 21:00 *Closed Mondays*

Deoksugung Palace was a temporary residence for King Seonjo (the 14th King of the Joseon Dynasty),, and was named as Gyeongungung Palace once, by King Gwanghaegun (the 15th King of Joseon Dynasty) before being re-established as a formal palace. It was only in the year 1907 that Deoksugung Palace received the official title of the palace once again, with the meaning “palace of virtuous longevity.” Being the sole palace possessing western-style exploring both urbanism and heritage can be done as it contains the modern architecture along with the romance of the Josen Dynasty. In addition, due to the charming juxtaposition of medieval and contemporary structures, the picturesque Deoksugung Palace has always been a hot spot for aspiring architects and casual visitors. This neighboring palace of the Seoul City Hall and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) is also home to a popular urban myth that all couples who walk down the stone-wall road of Deoksugung are fated to break up.

3) Changgyeonggung Palace (hangeul: 창경궁)

• Address: 185, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

• Hours of Operation: 09:00-21:00 *closed Mondays*

Changgyeonggung Palace was initially built by the 4th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, King Sejong, in 1418 as Suganggung Palace. However, the palace was renovated during the reign of King Seongjong, the 9th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, and received its current name. The combination of the Changgyeonggung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace is known as Donggwol which means the East Palace. As a phenomenal illustration of East Asian palace design, Changgyeonggung Palace has always influenced the development of Korean architecture with its wonderful harmony of the layout integrated with Confucian Ideology and mother nature. Western-style grand greenhouse in Changgyeonggung Palace is also an asset of South Korea. Featuring pointed arches and window frames, the visitors of this enclosed botanical garden can surely be reminded of the Crystal Palace in London, England, on which its design was based.

4) Changdeokgung Palace (hangeul: 창덕궁)

• Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

• Hours of Operation: 09:00-18:30 *closed Mondays*

Changdeokgung Palace, built by King Taejo, the first ruler of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), was used as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung Palace for approximately two centuries. It is located at the foot of Ungbong Peak of Mount Baegaksan and Koreans have pride that it is one of the well-preserved Palaces among five grand palaces. Furthermore, Changdeokgung Palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and is known as a masterpiece of architecture for having buildings that are in harmony with the natural settings. The main attraction of this Palace is its secret garden with a lotus pond, pavilions, landscaped lawns, trees, and flowers, and the Palace's main gate (Donghwamun).

5) Gyeonghuigung Palace (hangeul: 경희궁)

• Address: 1-126, Sinmunno 2(i)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul South Korea

• Hours of Operation: 09:00-18:00 (weekdays) 10:00-18:00 (weekends) *closed Mondays *

• Admission Fee - Free

The construction of Gyeonghuigung Palace (Historic Site No. 271) took place from 1617 to 1623 and it was also called Seogwol (a palace of the west). The Palace was originally constructed by King Gwanghaegun (the 15th king of the Joseon Dynasty) in the late Joseon Dynasty. It was first used as a royal residence for the king in times of emergency with the title of Gyeongdeokgung Palace. It was in 1760 that the name was changed again to the current Gyeonghuigung Palace. The foremost attractive places of the Palace are Heunghwamun (the main gate of the palace), the Seoul Museum of Art, the Seoul Museum of History which exhibits the evolution from its prehistoric period to the present, and three main halls- Sungjeongjeon Hall, Jajeongjeon Hall and Taeryeongjeon Hall where the King held the meetings.

Topic - Top 5 Markets in Seoul, South Korea

Writers - Aung Min Khant @ 아웅 민 칸, Wyne Theingi Zaw @ 다빈, Thadar Soe @ 다다

South Korea, home to the ‘Gangnam Style’ phenomenon and hottest Netflix series ‘The Squid Game’, actually has a lot more to offer than its globally influential pop culture. Because of its reputation as the global IT powerhouse and extraordinarily sophisticated society, the contemporary aspect of South Korea is more widely known than its traditional features. Thus, South Korea is making efforts to promote its traditional culture to the tourists and visitors by making it possible for them to experience the distinctive harmony between historical cultural heritage and modern-day culture. One such method of promotion is the preservation of traditional street markets (hangeul: 전통시장, Romanization: jeongtongsijang) or (hangeul: 재래시장, Romanization: jaeraesijang) all across the country. Starting from mouth-watering street foods to regional specialties, the traditional markets are perfect for everyone to experience the authentic culture of South Korea. Mentioned below are the top 5 traditional markets located within Seoul, the metropolis of South Korea.

1 • Seoul Yangnyeong Market (hangeul: 서울약령시장) 

Address: 27, Yangpyeong Dong-gil, Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Hours of Operation: 09:00 to 18:00 (Closes on Sundays)

Seoul Yangnyeong Market is one of South Korea’s most famous oriental medicine markets in South Korea. The root of the term Yangnyeong draws back the official medicine markets, which were called Yangnyeongsi (hangeul: 약령시) in the time of King Hyojong of the Joseon Dynasty. Since its official establishment in the late 1960s, it has been supplying the nation with all of its medicinal herbs and products such as various types of ginseng, roots, mushrooms, and many other herbal ingredients, both rare and common. The healthy-smelling aroma of the herbs and the relatively cheap price of the products ensures that the visitors will revisit the market. It also houses the ‘Seoul Yangnyeong Market Herbal Medicine Museum, where visitors can learn about herb cultivation and harvesting through interactive videos. Moreover, one can get suitable food and customized exercise according to their physical diagnosis.

1 • Mangwon Market (hangeul: 망원시장)

Address: 7 Mangwon-ro 8-gil, Mangwon 1(il)-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Hours of Operation: 09:00 to 22:00 (Closes on Tuesdays and Sundays)

Mangwon Market is a traditional, spacious indoor market, located in the Mangwon-dong near Hongdae, with a bunch of delicious restaurants and friendly vendors selling the freshest fruits, vegetables, seafood, and local produce in a clean environment. After its feature on famous television programs and YouTube videos, this small market has become popular day by day. Mangwon Market is the perfect place for those who want to experience authentic local life as it is not yet too familiar to international travelers compared to the other popular markets. It is also renowned for its delicious street food, with food stalls left and right. Nearby the market, there is Mangwon Hangang Park, a beautiful and scenic place with diverse public recreational facilities. Thus, people can pack themselves a picnic, buying spicy snacks and delicious dishes from Mangwon Market, and enjoy it in the Mangwon Hangang Park.

3• Gwangjang Market (hangeul: 광장시장 )

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Hours of Operation: 09:00 to 18:00 (Closes on Sundays)

Gwangjang Market, previously called Dongdaemun Market (hangeul: 동대문시장), is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets, based in the center of the city, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Gwangjang Corporation made the Bae O Gae Market (hangeul: 배오개시장) the foundation of Dongdaemun Market with the purpose of establishing the market which is not under the control of the Japanese. It later became the first-ever permanent market and in the year 1960, its official name was changed to Gwangjang Market. It is known as a large wholesale market selling a variety of goods, upholstery, groceries, traditional goods, and more. Besides, Gwangjang Market is famous for its high quality yet inexpensive goods such as silks, fabrics, vintage clothing, and traditional Korean costumes known as hanbok (hangeul: 한복). There are also many restaurants and food stalls which offer tourists a taste of traditional Korean cuisine.

4 • Namdaemunmarket (hangeul: 남대문시장)

Address: 21, Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Hours of Operation: Opens overnight (Closes on Sundays)  

Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional retail market, with sellers of all kinds of merchandise. It is located next to the Namdaemun (hangeul: 남대문, Meaning: The Great South Gate) of the old city and is named after the same exact historic gate. In Korean, Nam (남) means South, Dae (대) Great, and lastly, Mun (문) gate or windows respectively. The origin of the market dates back to 1414, in the early days of the Joseon Dynasty. Even after years of operation, Namdaemun Market is still active, marking it as the oldest continually running market. The market, spread out over many blocks, comprises a number of vendors and stalls selling clothes, everyday commodities, kitchen supplies, toys, and even used camera equipment, all at affordable prices. It can also be called a wholesale market since the high-quality items are often used to supply the retailers, at wholesale prices. The scene of busy shoppers bustling around the market can be named as a unique scenery for the tourists around the world indeed.   

5 • Haebangchon Shinheung Market (hangeul: 해방촌 신흥 시장)

Address: 95-9, Sinheung-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Hours of Operation: Varies for each store

Haebangchon Shinheung Market is not a typical Korean market one might often see. Instead, it is a place where the cultures from the past (1970-80s) and present (21st century) coexist alongside the nationalities from different corners of the globe. After Korea's liberation in 1953, Shinheung Market changed its name to Haebangchon Market. Within the broad vicinity of the market, there are a variety of restaurants, serving scrumptious cuisines from different nations and many distinctive cafes with accessible rooftops and various themes to choose from. Hence, it can be regarded as the living paradise of Korea where you can find outstanding places such as pubs, video arcades, bookstores, and diverse foreign restaurants. Plus, the market has become popular as a photo zone as well since it has been featured as filming locations for Itaewon Class and When the Camellia Blooms. Haebangchon has been under the urban regeneration project since the approval of the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) in December 2015 and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2021.

REFERENCES

https://english.visitseoul.net/shopping/Seoul-Yangnyeong-Market_/1358

http://kmedi.ddm.go.kr/eng/fac/museum.php

https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SHP/SH_EN_7_2.jsp?gotoPage=7&cid=2592401

https://mangwonsijang.modoo.at/

https://english.visitseoul.net/nature/Mangwon-Hangang-Park_/28662

https://www.theseoulguide.com/gwangjang-market/

https://migrationology.com/gwangjang-market-seoul/

https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SHP/SH_EN_7_2.jsp?cid=273761

https://english.visitseoul.net/shopping/Gwangjang-Market_/287

https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SHP/SH_EN_7_2.jsp?cid=273760

https://www.theseoulguide.com/namdaemun-market/

https://www.agoda.com/travel-guides/south-korea/seoul/namdaemun-market-guide-to-seouls-oldest-biggest-market?cid=1844104

https://english.visitseoul.net/itaewon/Haebangchon-Shinheung-Market_/37963

http://english.seoul.go.kr/haebangchons-sinheung-market-in-seoul-reborn-to-revitalize-the-local-economy/

Topic - SAYUL

Writers - THADAR SOE(다다), AUNG MIN KHANT(아웅 민 칸), WYNE THEINGI ZAW(다빈)

Link - https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draft:Sayul#

SAYUL (hangeul: 세이울) is a student-led, not-for-profit organization that operates to empower youths who are keen on becoming youth leader, promoting diplomacy through cross-cultural experiences, SDG-based projects, etc. Founded and based in South Korea, SAYUL aims at forming a global network for youth leaders with the spirit of engaging in social growth of the world. Moreover, it also promotes both-side diplomacy between South Korea and other nations. 

SAYUL also works with a cohort of youths from different cultural backgrounds, who are interested in the culture and language of South Korea. 

Origin of the name 

Korean/ Hangeul version of SAYUL is spelled as ‘세이울.’ Combining the first syllables of the words ‘세종대왕’ (King Sejong the Great), ‘이순신장군’ (Admiral Yi Sun-Sin) and ‘울타리’ (Ultari, meaning ‘Wall/ Fence, used as a metaphor for ‘광화문’ (Gwanghwamun)), the name ‘SAYUL’ was coined. Additionally, SAYUL is also an abbreviation of ‘Student Ambassador, Youth United Leaders.’

Formation 

Three main branches, 1) Public-Private Committee, 2) KOREA NIGHT and 3) Global Networks, comprises the operation of SAYUL.

Public-Private Committee: This committee deals with the error correction of the descriptions related to South Korea. Likewise, information expansion of South Korea and delivering fact-checked, authentic stands to be the main purpose of the branch.

KOREA NIGHT: This particular event is an annual cultural concert that has been in existence since 2014.

Global Networks: This branch, in turn, is composed of two separate groups, Korea Club and International Branch. The former consists of Korean members, currently residing in South Korea while the latter is made up of international student communities from different parts of the world.

3-1) Korea Club (KC)

The original construction of SAYUL Korea Club (KC) consists of three teams from different districts, which are Team Gwanak (관악 팀), Team Sinchon (신촌 팀) and lastly, Team Anam (안암 팀). Korea Club of SAYUL works for the best delivery, accurate contribution and correct information about the country. Besides, members of SAYUL Korea Club introduce Korean Language, social values, culture and history to International Branch (IB) members, who in turn work for the promotion of South Korea from different aspects.Through monthly cultural and language exchange meetings, members of the Korea Club (KC) and International Branch (IB) work on the exchange of diverse cultures and language of each country and the empowerment of being public diplomatic entities. 

3-2) International Branch (IB)

The International Branch (IB) of SAYUL is currently made up of 16 global member countries from all over the globe. The members act as the student ambassador of South Korea for their own country.

The International network of SAYUL is comprises by total 15 countries; 3 Countries (Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Venezuela) from North & Latin America, 6 Countries (Azerbaijan, France, Hungary, Spain, Italy, UK) from Europe, 4 Countries (India, South Korea, Myanmar, Indonesia) from South-Asia Pacific and 2 Countries (Iran, Morocco) from the Middle East & Africa.  

Members from each country write Wikipedia articles about the information affiliated to South Korea with the purpose of distributing correct information to people from each country. In addition to this, summits are conducted for the members of International Branch (IB) so as to form a strong network between student communities between countries.

References 

 https://sayul.org/

https://sayul.org/WHATISSAYUL

https://www.facebook.com/sayul.org

1. Topic: Jeollip

2. Writer: Ei Kyi Phyu

3. Short Explanation: About the Korean traditional hat worn by military officers in the Joseon dynasty

4. Link: https://my.wikipedia.org/wiki/ဂျောန်လစ်ပ်