Gwanghwamun Square Plaza

Address: Gwanghwamun Square, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Website: https://english.seoul.go.kr/

Hours: Public space, open daily 24 hours; nearby museums and the Gwanghwamun area have variable hours

Admission: No entry fee for the public square; monuments within the area (statues, museums nearby) may have separate fees

Gwanghwamun Square is a prominent public plaza in central Seoul located on Sejongno in front of Gwanghwamun Gate and Gyeongbokgung Palace. The square is a civic and ceremonial space anchored by major sculptures and regular public events.

The plaza contains the major bronze statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, along with wide pedestrian areas, fountains and exhibition elements. It functions as a focal point for national celebrations, protests and cultural programming and provides direct pedestrian access to surrounding government buildings and museums.

The square was redeveloped in the early 21st century to prioritize pedestrians and to restore historical sightlines to the palace gate; landscaping and paved promenades create an open urban space. Interpretive panels and subterranean exhibition spaces offer historical context for visitors.

Gwanghwamun Square lies in Jongno-gu in the heart of Seoul, a short walk from major subway stations and cultural institutions. It forms a central axis between downtown Seoul and the royal palace precinct.

• Location Advantage: The square sits directly in front of Gwanghwamun Gate and Gyeongbokgung Palace, providing clear sightlines to both landmarks and serving as a central civic gathering space.

What to See#

• Admiral Yi Statue: Bronze equestrian statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin located toward the northern end of the plaza and facing south toward the old city.
• King Sejong Statue: Seated bronze statue of King Sejong the Great positioned near the centre of the square with interpretive panels about his achievements in science and the Korean alphabet.

Take Seoul Subway Line 5 or Line 1 to Gwanghwamun Station (exit 9) or Gyeongbokgung Station; the square is a short walk from either station. Numerous bus routes stop on the main boulevards surrounding the square.

• Visit at 10am or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day crowd; the square hosts events and demonstrations, so check the Seoul municipal schedule.
• Stand near the King Sejong statue for the best view of Cheonggyecheon and the palace axis behind it - it's a good spot for photos with the Gwanghwamun Gate framed in depth.
• If interested in the nightly lighting programs, check municipal schedules for special illuminations or projections on national holidays.