Echoes of Empires – From the Lost Palace to the Heart of Jeongdong - KOSINAM

# 🎞️ KOSINAM's Historical Walk:

## Echoes of Empires – From the Lost Palace to the Heart of Jeongdong

🗓 Date: Saturday, May 1st, 2026 🕒 Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM+ 📍 Meeting Point: Exit 7, Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5) → We start our journey toward Gyeonghuigung Palace!

## 🌟 About this Event

> “Tracing the turbulent modern history of Korea through the architectural scars of foreign influence.”

The coming Friday, we invite you to explore Jeongdong, the epicenter of diplomacy and power struggles during the late 19th century. We begin at Gyeonghuigung, the "Lost Palace" that suffered the most during the Japanese occupation, to understand the systematic dismantling of Joseon's sovereignty.
Our journey continues through the Jeongdong area, where the legacies of Britain, Japan, Russia, and the United States still stand side-by-side. The highlight will be an in-depth exploration of Deoksugung Palace, the home of the short-lived Korean Empire. We will witness the unique fusion of traditional Korean halls and Western-style stone palaces like Seokjojeon. Let’s walk the paths where King Gojong agonized over the fate of a nation.

> ⏰ A Gentle Reminder on Time: We start sharply at 11:00 AM at Gwanghwamun Station. Dr. KOSINAM has a wealth of stories to share, and to cover the full historical depth of both palaces, punctuality is essential! (Every member, we’re looking at you with a smile! 😉)

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## 🗺️ Walking Route Overview

Phase 1: The Lost Palace

• Gyeonghuigung Palace: Once a grand royal residence, now a symbol of the scars left by colonial history.

Phase 2: Traces of Britain & Japan (Upper Jeongdong)

• Seoul City Council: The former site of the Jungchuwon, reflecting Japanese administrative influence.
• British Embassy & Anglican Cathedral: A look at "Gunboat Diplomacy" and the Romanesque beauty of the Anglican Church.

Phase 3: The Korean Empire (Deoksugung Deep Dive)

• Junghwajeon: The throne hall of the Emperor.
• Seokjojeon & Jeonggwanheon: Western-style architecture where the King hosted foreign diplomats and sought modernization.

Phase 4: US & Russian Influence (Lower Jeongdong)

• Jeongdong First Methodist Church & Ewha School: The birthplace of modern education and American missionary influence.
• Jeongdong Park (Former Russian Legation): The site of 'Agwan Pacheon' (King Gojong’s refuge after the Queen’s assassination).
• Official Finish: "The formal historical walk concludes here."

Phase 5: The Afterglow (Optional)

• Independent Brewery (독립맥주공장): Closing the day with craft beer in the heart of Jeongdong.

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## 🪠 Detailed Itinerary

• 11:00 AM – Meet at Exit 7, Gwanghwamun Station.
• 11:10 PM – 12:10 PM – Gyeonghuigung Palace – Deep dive into the palace that almost disappeared.
• 12:10 PM – 1:00 PM – Upper Jeongdong Walk – Examining British and Japanese architectural legacies.
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Deoksugung Grand Tour – Extensive lecture inside the palace grounds (Junghwajeon to Seokjojeon).
• 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Lower Jeongdong & Stone Wall Path – Exploring Ewha School and the Russian Legation site.
• 4:30 PM – Official Conclusion & Group Photo.
• 4:30 PM ~ – Optional Networking at Independent Brewery.

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## 🏛️ Entrance Fees

• Gyeonghuigung: Free
• Deoksugung: * 1,000 KRW (Standard for Adults aged 19-64)
• Note: Foreigners aged 7-18 are 500 KRW; Seniors (65+) and those in Hanok are Free.

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## 🍺 Optional: Post-Walk Craft Beer

> This is an optional session for those who wish to socialize further.

• Location: Independent Brewery (독립맥주공장)
• Cost: Go Dutch (Pay for what you order)
• Craft Beer (1 glass): Approx. 10,000 KRW or less
• Beer + Pizza/Appetizers: Approx. 20,000 KRW or less

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## 🎓 How this event will be going?

Dr. KOSINAM will provide professional lectures at each spot in Korean. A designated member (or Samuel) will provide English translation voluntarily to ensure everyone is included in the narrative.

## 🧰 What to Bring

🧡 Water bottle 🪴 Comfortable walking shoes (Essential for the long palace walk) 🌞 Sun protection 🍽 Pocket money (For entrance fees and optional beer)

## ✅ How to Join

Reply to RSVP or click “Attend”.

> After the event, you can easily reach Seodaemun Station (Line 5), City Hall Station (Line 1/2), or Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5) for your commute home.

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🎥 Filming Notice – YouTube Channel: KOSINAM's Historical Walk Historical narration by Dr. KOSINAM will be recorded. If you do not wish to be on camera, please let Samuel know at the site!

> ✨ Join us to witness the shadows and lights of Seoul's modern history! ✨