Imagine stepping back in time to a place where Korea's royal history comes to life. That's the enchanting experience waiting for you at Gyeongbokgung Palace in the heart of Seoul.
General Information
Address of Gyeongbokgung Palace
161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161 (세종로)
Direction of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Option 1 - Take subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station and Exit 2.
Option 2 - Take subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and Exit 5.
Opening hours of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Daily *Closed Tuesdays*
March - May - 09:00 to 18:00
June - August - 09:00 to 18:30
September - October - 09:00 to 18:00
November - February - 09:00 to 17:00
*Last entry one hour before closing*
Entrance Fee of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Regular ticket (Adult aged 19-64) - 3000won, (Juniors aged 7-18) - 1500won
Total Admission Pass (Adult) - 10000won, (Child) - 5000won
Free Admission: Children under 6 years old, Senior Citizen above 65 years old, Wearing hanbok
Historic Background
Gyeongbokgung, is a historic palace located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. Gyeongbokgung means “palace greatly blessed by Heaven”in Korean.
The palace was first built in 1395 at the early days of the Joseon Dynasty, when the capital was moved from Kaesong to Hanyang (Seoul in nowadays) during the reign of King Taejo.
It served as the main royal palace, representing the sovereignty of the Joseon Dynasty. Until it was being burnt down during Imjin War, the Japanese invasions which happened in 1592-1598. The palace was then left in ruins for over 270 years.
With the help from Heungseon Daewongun in 1867, it was restored as head of government and over 500 buildings were rebuilt.
But again, the restored Gyeongbokgung Palace was significantly damaged during the Japanese occupation and over 90% of the buildings were demolished. With the war long over, a full-fledged of restoration project was began in 1990 to restore Gyeongbokgung Palace to its former glory.
Most Notable Features
It is the largest palace among the Five Grand Palaces and also one of the most iconic sights in Korea. The palace covers a vast area of over 400,000 square meters and features a blend of traditional Korean and Chinese architectural styles.
Geunjeongjeon, is the throne hall where the king held important ceremonies. The sumptuous structure of Geunjeongjeon symbolize the sovereignty of Joseon’s rulers. In old days, various royal events such as the coronation ceremony of king, cabinet meeting, receptions of foreign envoys and final state examination were held at here.
Gyeonghoeru, a large pavilion where various events such as royal banquets, receptions of foreign envoys, final state examination and seasonal religious rituals, held at.
Sujeongjeon, a sleeping quarter of the king and as a cabinet office during the Reform Movement of 1894. Originally, the hall was known as Jiphyeonjeon where the Korean Hangul writing system was developed during the reign of King Sejong (1418-1450). It was renamed to Sujeongjeon after rebuilt by King Gojong in 1867. The hall was also the only government office building in Gyeongbokgung that survived during Japan occupation.
Visitors to Gyeongbokgung can also explore several other important cultural and historical landmarks within the palace grounds, including the National Palace Museum of Korea, which houses a collection of artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty, Gate Guard Duty Performance (detail) and the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (detail).
Free guided tour (detail) is also provided which would great for those who want to know more about the history and culture.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is not just about history; it's a place of serene beauty, with splendid architecture and tranquil gardens that make it a photographer's dream. Many visitors, even local couples or groups of friend, will wear hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) and shoot their photo at here. Because as you walk through its grand gates and expansive courtyards, you are like being transported to a time when emperors and their courts graced in this palace.
Services Available
Changing of Palace Guard Ceremony
Time: 10.00am & 2.00pm
Location: At square inside of Gwanghwamun Gate
Gate Guard Duty Performance
Time: 11.00am & 1.00pm
Location: Outside of Gwanghwamun Gate
Free guided tour
Time: 10.00am to 4.00pm
Duration: About 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes for each tour.
Daily 3 tours for four languages (English, Japanese, Chinese and Korean) ,
Indonesian, Vietnamese, Spanish only available from Friday to Saturday
Inquiry the time for each tour at Gyeongbokgung Management Office or its official website.
Tours depart from in front of the information center at Heungnyemun Gate.
Overall, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean history, culture, and architecture. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Korea's rich past and is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of bustling Seoul. So, come and explore the palace, witness the changing of the guard, and let Gyeongbokgung's timeless charm captivate your heart.
Bon voyage!
ヾ(•ω•`)o