How to Read Traditional Korean Gardens

The author examines various symbolic elements in traditional Korean gardens including rock arrangements, ponds, islands, and plants, and identifies the philosophic and religious traditions to which they relate. Korean gardens may include Daoist, Confucian, Buddhist, shamanistic and Chinese and Korean mythological references. Significant symbolic plants include pine, gingko and maple trees and lotus. Specific gardens analyzed include: the Korean Folk Village outside Suwon, Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palaces, both in Seoul, Bulguksa Temple and Anapji Pond in Gyeongju, the scholar’s garden on Bogildo Island in South Jeolla province, and the Royal pleasure garden near Buyeo.