A Leisurely Day in Jongno
서울특별시 종로구 종로 157
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On a calm weekday, I wandered through Jongno, following a route shaped more by curiosity than a fixed plan. From historical monuments to temples and old streets, the walk revealed layers of Seoul that quietly coexist.
This walk was less about famous attractions and more about observing traces of history, everyday life, and the slow changes happening in the heart of the city.
A Slow Start in Central Jongno
I left home later than usual and began the day without urgency. Jongno feels like a tidal flat, where something unexpected appears with every turn.
To start, I had a bowl of cold buckwheat noodles near the entrance of Cheongjin Shopping Center. Even after many visits, the taste remains consistently satisfying.
Walking Through History and Memory
Passing the 40th Anniversary Monument of King Gojong’s ascension from 1903, I paused to reflect on how people sought hope during difficult periods.
Nearby, I visited the statue of Yeom Sang-seop and sites connected to forgotten waterways that once flowed from Bukaksan into Cheonggyecheon.
This area is also home to the remains of Boseongsa, where the Declaration of Independence was printed, as well as the site of Sinheung School, a predecessor of Kyung Hee University.
Temples, Symbols, and Old Streets
I stopped by Jogyesa, the main temple of the Jogye Order. Looking closely, I noticed a rare white pine among the trees, quietly standing apart from the rest.
The temple grounds are decorated in a way that reflects the present era, while still preserving traditional symbolism, including unique representations of the Four Heavenly Kings.
Nearby landmarks such as the old Ujeong Post Office, the brush sculpture at the entrance of Ssamji-gil, and Bukchon Son Mandu added layers of nostalgia to the walk.
From Tapgol Park to Jongmyo Shrine
Tapgol Park, the birthplace of the March 1st Movement, remains a powerful place with its stone pagoda and historical monuments.
Song Hae-gil felt noticeably emptier without the presence of Mr. Song Hae, and nearby streets like Pimago and the old Piccadilly Theater reflected quiet decline.
At Jongmyo Shrine, weekday visitors must enter with a guide. The explanations were detailed and serious, helping me appreciate the scale and significance of Jongmyo Jeongjeon, stretching over 100 meters in length.
Ending the Walk Quietly
Seosunra-gil was filled mostly with tourists, while Donghwamun continued its long renovation process.
An unexpected highlight was the Korean Sound Museum, preserving sounds from the past that can no longer be heard today.
I eventually entered the subway through Ikseon-dong, ending the day without rush, but with a lingering sense of reflection.
2025.12.19 (Friday)
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