A LOOK INTO THE REGION

Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul, South Korea adorns the cover of this issue of the journal. Built at the beginning of the Joseon Dynasty when it was decided to move the capital to Seoul, this palace remained the main seat of power for Korean kings throughout their reign. The main gate (Gwanghwa-mun) separates Gyeongbok (translated as "Shining Happiness") Palace from one of the busiest areas of Seoul. The magnificent structure was built as the primary palace of the Joseon Dynasty by its founder, King Lee Seong-Gye in 1395, the fourth year of his reign. Destroyed during the wars, the palace was left in ruins for over 250 years. Starting in 1865, it was rebuilt to its original grandeur but when Korea-Japan Treaty was signed in 1910, most of the 200 building on the palace grounds covering 419,100 square meters were torn down, leaving only a dozen or so structures. It is believed a palace and its site truly represent the dignity of a dynasty and Gyeongbok Palace is considered a national treasure by all citizens.