A metaphorical description: Gyeongbok High School stands as a crucible where diligence, courage, strength, and cooperation are forged. The high school is one of South Korea’s oldest modern secondary schools. It is located in Jongno-gu Seoul near Gyeongbok Palace. The palace gives the school its name.
Kyungbock High School was established on April 18 1921. It was initially named the No. 2 High School of Gyeongseong. In 1938 the school changed its name to Kyungbock Middle School. This was due to its proximity to Gyeongbok Palace. After liberation from Japanese rule in 1946 the school expanded its admissions. It began educating students in grades 7 through 12.
Later the school was separated into Kyungbock Middle School and Kyungbock High School. Kyungbock Middle School was closed in 1971. In 1985 the school constructed its new main building. This building is still in use today.
Kyungbock High School is known for its sports programs. Many student-athletes have represented South Korea. They have competed at youth levels in various sports. Some have even played professionally. The school is one of the few in the country with an ice hockey program. It has existed since the 1990s. Kyungbock’s biggest rival is Kyunggi High School. They often meet in the finals of high school championships.
The school also has a well-established basketball program. It is a major feeder for top universities. From the 1960s to 1980s Kyungbock gained a reputation. It became known as one of Seoul’s top schools for basketball.
Many notable alumni have graduated from Kyungbock High School. Chung Mong-koo the chairman of Hyundai Motors attended this school. Lee Jong-wook a former Secretary-General of the World Health Organization is also an alumnus. You Hee-Yeol a K-pop musician is another notable graduate. The high school is also famous as a filming location. It was used in the drama MONSTAR.
On the campus you’ll find the Kyungbock Memorial House. It has storage buildings that commemorate the school’s achievements. They also encourage students to continue its traditions. The basement houses a Kyungbock Alumni Association branch. The first floor features memorabilia from almost 90 years ago. The second floor has a small banquet hall. It is used for reunions and scholarship events.
So remember Gyeongbok High School is more than just a school. It is a place where tradition meets the future. It is a place where students are encouraged to achieve greatness.