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Showing posts from October, 2025

Gang Gam-chan and the Battle of Gwiju: A Historic Victory That Preserved the Dignity of Goryeo

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It is unclear whether the Khitan cavalry actually looked exactly like this. However, in ancient warfare, resisting an assault by such a mounted force would have been extraordinarily difficult—much like modern infantry attempting to defend against armored vehicles and tanks. By successfully repelling the attack of 100,000 northern cavalrymen, Goryeo ultimately compelled the Liao dynasty to abandon further invasions for the next hundred years. Gang Gam-chan and the Battle of Gwiju: A Victory That Preserved Goryeo’s Dignity and Reshaped the East Asian Order The Battle of Gwiju was a decisive confrontation in which the Goryeo army, led by General Gang Gam-chan, defeated the Khitan cavalry—the most powerful mounted force of its time. This victory elevated the international standing of Goryeo, founded by Wang Geon, and marked a historic turning point in the East Asian geopolitical order. Introduction: Why the Battle of Gwiju Is Still Remembered Today Dear readers, welcome. In a previous post...

Changdeokgung Palace Complete Guide: A Joseon Dynasty Palace in Harmony with Nature, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

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  A peaceful view of Donhwamun, the main gate of Changdeokgung Palace. Changdeokgung Palace: The Art of Harmony Between Nature and Royal Architecture (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Dear readers, hello! Today, I would like to introduce Changdeokgung Palace , one of Korea’s most beautiful and historically significant royal palaces. Located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Changdeokgung is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that represents the aesthetics of the Joseon Dynasty and its deep harmony with nature. Together, we’ll explore its cultural treasures such as Donhwamun Gate, Injeongjeon Hall, and the Rear Garden (Huwon), while uncovering the history and meaning behind them. Many visitors are familiar with Gyeongbokgung Palace, yet some may be hearing about Changdeokgung for the first time. From Incheon International Airport, you can conveniently reach Changdeokgung in about one hour and fifteen minutes by taking bus No. 6011. Let us now begin our journey into the heart of this timeless palace. ...

Sanggang (霜降): Korea’s Seasonal Wisdom Linking Nature and People in Late Autumn

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  At Hyangwonjeong Pavilion in Gyeongbokgung Palace — Where Autumn Foliage in Full Glory Reflects the Season’s Philosophy Sanggang (霜降): The Frost’s Arrival  that  Colors Korea’s Autumn Dear readers, hello! Today, I would like to introduce Sanggang (霜降) , one of Korea’s traditional 24 seasonal divisions known as jeolgi (절기) . Sanggang marks the time when frost first begins to form, and in Korea, it coincides with the peak of autumn foliage. Let us begin!. Introduction: Standing at the Threshold of Frost The concept of jeolgi (seasonal divisions) originated in ancient China as part of an agricultural calendar that divided the year into 24 equal parts to mark the subtle shifts of the seasons. This system later spread to neighboring countries such as Korea and Japan, where it was adapted to local climates and agricultural traditions. Among these divisions, Sanggang literally means “descent of frost.” It usually falls around October 23 on the solar calendar. At thi...

Hangeul Day Special: The Story of Hangul, the Most Beautiful and Logical Alphabet Ever Created by Humanity

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  This is the statue of King Sejong the Great, the creator of Hangul, located at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Hangul: The Most Scientific and Beautiful Alphabet in the World Dear readers, hello! Today, I would like to introduce Hangul, the unique writing system used by the Korean people. Coincidentally, October 9 on the solar calendar is  Hangeul Day , the national holiday that commemorates the creation of this remarkable alphabet. Many foreigners have praised Hangul as  one of the easiest writing systems in the world to learn . Although the Korean language itself may seem challenging, learners are often amazed by how  surprisingly simple it is to master Hangul . I am delighted to share with you today  the reasons that make such an experience possible . Now then, shall we begin? Meta Description: Hangul is the Korean writing system created by King Sejong in 1443 and promulgated in 1446. Recognized by UNESCO as one of the most scientific alphabets in human h...

The Meaning and Origin of Chuseok — Korea’s Thanksgiving Day and a Festival of Family and Gratitude

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During Chuseok, women dressed in traditional hanbok often go out to enjoy the autumn foliage 🌕 Chuseok — Korea’s Thanksgiving Day: Tradition, Family, and Gratitude Chuseok, often called the Korean Thanksgiving, is one of South Korea’s most important traditional holidays. Discover the meaning, customs, food, and modern changes behind this cherished autumn festival that celebrates family, harvest, and gratitude.  Introduction: The Heart of Korean Autumn Hello, dear readers! Today, I’d like to introduce you to one of Korea’s two major traditional holidays — Chuseok (추석) , also known as Hangawi (한가위) . It’s celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar , which usually falls in September or early October on the solar calendar. While many countries celebrate holidays based on the solar calendar, Korea uniquely observes both the solar and lunar calendars , a reflection of its deep agricultural heritage and harmony with nature. Chuseok is a time when families ...