Blue House

The Blue House (Cheongwadae) is the former presidential office and official residence in central Seoul, known for its distinctive blue-tiled roofs and position near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The complex contains the official office and reception areas and sits within landscaped gardens backed by the forested slopes of Bugaksan. It was the centre of South Korean executive government functions for decades until changes in official use took place in 2022.

The site occupies land that was part of royal palace gardens during the Joseon dynasty; modern buildings and the roof tiles that give the compound its popular name were installed in the 20th century when it became the presidential compound.

The Blue House sits north of central Seoul in Jongno-gu, adjacent to Gyeongbokgung Palace and at the foot of Bugaksan, making it visible from nearby public viewpoints and palace terraces.

• Visitor access: Access to the site for visitors is controlled and often requires advance reservation and security screening; some areas opened to the public after changes to official use in 2022.

What to See #

• Main complex (office and residence): The main Blue House complex historically included the presidential office, the First Family's residence and formal reception rooms set within gardens and terraces against Bugaksan's lower slopes.
• Visitor centre (Sarangchae): Cheongwadae Sarangchae is a visitor and exhibition centre beside the complex that presents the site's history, official functions and rotating cultural displays for the public.