Gyeongbokgung Friends (경복궁 친구들)
Written and Illustrated by Cho Su-jin in 2026 Releases
Gyeongbokgung Friends
Written and Illustrated by Cho Su-jin Publisher Eoheung Daejakjeon
If you are planning a spring outing with your family, this picture book is a highly recommended read. While almost everyone knows of Gyeongbokgung Palace, not many are familiar with the deep stories hidden within its walls. Through the tales in Gyeongbokgung Friends, you can discover a wealth of new information about this historic site.
This book is uniquely designed as a panorama-style fold-out picture book. Starting from Gwanghwamun, the story takes readers through Yeongjegyo, Geunjeongjeon, Sajeongjeon, Gyotaejeon, Jagyeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru, and finally to Sinmumun. Along the way, various “Seosu” (auspicious guardian animals) that protect each architectural structure make their appearance.
A journey to meet the King through the deep, layered gates of the palace. On the road to meet the King, guardians reveal themselves one by one beneath the layers of blue roof tiles:
- Haechi at Gwanghwamun, the justice seeker who distinguishes right from wrong.
- Cheonrok at Yeongjegyo, who wards off evil spirits and allows only those with pure hearts to pass.
- The Four Guardian Spirits and Twelve Zodiac Animals acting as guardians of direction.
- The Red Dragon and Clouds, symbolizing the King and cooperation.
- Bulgasari to ward off fire, Bats for good fortune, and the Sipjangsaeng (Ten Symbols of Longevity).
- The Bronze Dragon and Elephant at Gyeonghoeru, and Hyeonmu at the north gate.

Experience the magic of Gyeongbokgung through these sacred guardians and their symbolic meanings. Shall we begin our journey to the palace?
Through this book, readers can explore:
- The diverse architecture of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
- The meanings and roles of various guardian animals (Seosu).
- The traditional concept of “Gunjung-gungweol” (the deep interior of the palace).
- Visual storytelling through a unique panorama format.
Themes Gyeongbokgung · Guardian Animals · Traditional Architecture · History · Family Outing Recommended Age 4–9
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