As we came up the steps from the subway station, one of the first things I noticed was a sign that read “No Drone Zone.” I immediately wondered why. As we reached the top of the stairs, it became clear—we were standing before an outer wall that appeared to be protecting a significant and historic landmark.
The wall stretches quietly alongside the courtyard, long and steady. It’s built of pale stone at its base and capped with deep red panels and a dark tiled roof. From a distance, it looks simple, but as you walk beside it, you begin to notice the rhythm: repeating panels, evenly spaced supports, and a roofline that gently rises and falls with traditional curves.
What I appreciated most about the wall is how clearly it separates worlds. On one side is the openness of the courtyard; on the other is the controlled, private space of the palace, hidden from view. The wall doesn’t feel defensive or harsh. Instead, it communicates restraint.
As someone who values accessibility, it was a pleasant surprise to see an accessibility ramp running alongside this centuries-old structure. It added another layer of meaning. Stone and steel exist together, quietly acknowledging that history isn’t frozen in time. The palace remains what it has always been, while the present gently adapts around it. The outer wall teaches you how to approach what lies beyond—slowly, respectfully, and with the awareness that some spaces are meant to be entered with intention.
And with intention, we passed beyond the wall protecting Geunjeongjeon Hall.
Standing at the far end of the vast, open courtyard, you can see how wide and bare the space is leading up to it—forcing you to slow your pace and feel small as you approach. Geunjeongjeon Hall is the main throne hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea, and it is breathtaking.
For some reason, the scene reminded me of moments from Jackie Chan movies. I half-expected a training montage to break out—not the over-the-top kind, but the quiet discipline kind. No flying kicks or collapsing ladders—just steady movement, careful footing, and deep respect for the space you’re in.
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