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For the first time ever, the Samsung Unpacked has returned to Seoul, and we had the honour to witness the birth of a plethora of next-generation devices, including the Galaxy Z Flip5, the Galaxy Z Fold5, the Galaxy Watch6 series, and the Galaxy Tab S9 series. Amongst all these innovations, Samsung has also taken the time to give us a deeper dive into the rich tapestry of Korean culture that forms the backdrop of Samsung's innovative spirit.
Gyeongbokgung
We started out our journey with the grand Gyeongbokgung, or the Gyeongbok Palace, which is a living testament to the Joseon Dynasty's architectural prowess. The first and largest of the royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty in 1395, Gyeongbok Palace stands proud in northern Seoul more than six hundred years later!
Fun fact: The palace's name, Gyeongbokgung, translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven."
The palace grounds are home to several significant buildings and sites. Among them are the National Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum, both of which offer a deeper insight into Korean history and culture. The palace itself is a marvel of traditional Korean architecture, with its elegant courtyards, ornate gates, and beautifully adorned buildings.
Inside the palace's imposing gates, it was as if we were transported back in time, surrounded by traditional architecture and tranquil gardens. In fact, we were able to don the traditional hanbok while visiting the historical palace!
Hanok Village
Next, we headed over to the charming Hanok Village, a neighbourhood preserving the traditional Korean houses known as Hanoks. Where Gyeongbukgong was a testament of longstanding history, the Hanok Village displayed a striking harmony between the old and the new. Between unique curved roofs and warm wooden structures stood modern cafes and boutiques, creating a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity.
Of course, what's a better way of experiencing culture than through food? We were treated to a heavenly meal of Korea's traditional cuisine, including the hearty and healthy Samgye-tang, or ginseng chicken soup.
Fun fact: Koreans believe that having samgye-tang (or other hot soups) in the summer actually cools them down! Essentially, they believe in "fighting fire with fire", so the hot broth replenishes the energy lost during the summer heat.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)
Our cultural exploration culminated at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), itself a hub of both creativity and innovation. Located next to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the museum's vast collection of artworks showcased the evolution of Korean art. In fact, the museum's architecture itself is a work of art, integrating the concept of madang (yard), seamlessly blending the exterior and interior of the building with the surrounding environment.
From traditional ink paintings to avant-garde installations, each piece was a testament to the artist's vision and creativity. One of the highlights of our visit was the museum's extensive digital library. With the help of technology, the library offered a wealth of information, allowing us to delve deeper into the history and context of the artworks on display.
We may have headed out to Seoul for the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked, but getting a tour of Korea's fascinating history was certainly as much an eye-opener as the event itself was. Samsung, for all its global renown, has its roots in Korea, and after this trip, it's clear to see as ever. Just like its home country, the brand is not afraid to look back at its heritage while boldly stepping into the future.
Just as we celebrate the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, and other devices, it's a great reminder to look back and see exactly how far we've come. If you think about it, it's really impressive how we got from bulky landlines to compact foldables that can also function as a computer in just a short few decades. And while innovation never stops, the legacy is here to stay—just like the Gyeongbukgong.