Korean Travel Online - Earthenware Rooftop Figurines from Joseon Dynasty

The National Palace Museum of Korea is the first specialized museum about the royal culture of the Joseon Dynasty. This is a great place to visit if you want to know more about the royal palaces, culture, clothes, etc. from that era. The best thing about this is admission is free. The museum has permanent exhibitions and special exhibitions. The museum's website is also available in English so you can have a look at their ongoing exhibitions here.

Where is that 'You are here' sticker when you need it?!

One of the things you'll get to see at the museum is the explanation about the rooftop figurines that we usually see on the rooftops of traditional buildings. These animal-shaped roof tiles and figurines are called Japsang (잡상).

Japsang (잡상), animal-shaped roof tiles and decorative figures

These roof tiles and figures were used not only as decorative symbols to show the dignity and grandeur of a building but also as shamanic symbols to chase away evil spirits and misfortune.

Here's a closer look at the figures and the names of each.