Gyeongbokgung Historical Site

Address: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sajik‑ro, Jongno‑gu, Seoul, South Korea

Website: http://www.royalpalace.go.kr

Hours: Generally open to visitors; many palaces in Seoul are closed on Mondays-check official site before visiting

Admission: Admission to main palace grounds/pay area for special exhibitions: check official site for current fees (some combined-tickets available).

Gyeongbokgung is the principal royal palace of the Joseon dynasty in central Seoul, originally constructed in 1395. It served as the main seat of the royal household and government and remains one of Korea’s most important historical palaces.

The palace complex contains major structures such as the throne hall, banquet pavilions and formal gates, and also hosts the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum within its grounds. Large courtyards, formal axial layouts and restored wooden architecture are characteristic features of the site.

Gyeongbokgung was built in 1395 by the founder of the Joseon dynasty and became the dynasty’s principal palace. It suffered destruction during the late 16th-century Japanese invasions and parts were reconstructed in later centuries; extensive restoration work has been carried out in the 20th and 21st centuries to recover historic building layouts and details.

The palace sits in Jongno-gu in northern central Seoul, immediately north of the modern Gwanghwamun intersection and within easy walking distance of other central Seoul landmarks and metro stations.

• Guard-changing ceremony: A traditional guard-changing ceremony is staged regularly at the main gate and is a popular attraction for visitors wanting photographed ceremonial costumes and drills.

What to See#

• Geunjeongjeon (throne hall): The central throne hall where state ceremonies were held and where the official throne is located; it is a focal point of the palace’s front court.
• Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: A pavilion set on an artificial island in a rectangular pond used for state banquets and official receptions; it is one of the palace’s most photographed structures.
• Gwanghwamun Gate: The principal southern gate of the palace complex facing Gwanghwamun and central Seoul, often used as the setting for the historical guard-changing ceremony.
• National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum: Two museums housed within the palace grounds: one presenting royal artefacts and the other displaying folk culture and everyday life across Korean history.

Gyeongbokgung is in central Seoul. Take Seoul Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and use Exit 5 (about a 2-5 minute walk to the main gate). Alternatively, Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5 (Exit 2) is also within a short walking distance of the palace.

Driving in central Seoul is possible but parking is limited; public transit is the easiest and fastest way to reach Gyeongbokgung.

• Arrive at or just after opening on weekdays to avoid the largest tour-group crowds and get clear shots of the palace courtyards; late afternoon light is also very photogenic.
• Enter through Gwanghwamun Gate for the classic frontal view and easiest access from Gwanghwamun Station (subway); the gate leads directly into the main axis of the palace.
• Time your visit to include the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (check the day's schedule in advance)-it's a highlight but draws crowds, so arrive early for a good viewing spot.
• Explore the National Folk Museum (within the palace grounds) and the smaller side halls-many visitors focus on the main throne area and miss these contextual displays.