Gyeongbokgung Palace

경복궁

The main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1395. It is the first and grandest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, and its Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, along with visitors in hanbok, make Seoul's most classic scene.

Gyeongbokgung was built in 1395 as the main palace after King Taejo Yi Seong-gye established Hanyang as the capital. The name means "palace of great blessing." It was burned during the Imjin War, then rebuilt in 1867 under the regent Heungseon Daewongun. During the Japanese occupation period, many of its buildings were demolished, and most of what stands today has been reconstructed since 1990. Highlights along the central axis, in order, are Gwanghwamun Gate, Heungnyemun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall (the throne hall for coronations and court audiences, with rank stones in front), Sajeongjeon Hall, Gangnyeongjeon Hall, and Gyotaejeon Hall (the royal and queen's residences). To the west, Gyeonghoeru is a banquet hall set in a pond. To the northeast, Hyangwonjeong is a pavilion on a small pond, and in autumn its reflection of red foliage is especially beautiful. The palace also houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea, both free. The changing of the guard takes place in front of Heungnyemun Gate at 10:00 and 14:00 each day, except Tuesdays. Adult admission costs ₩3,000, and entry is free for visitors wearing hanbok. Many hanbok rental shops are nearby, where a 2-hour rental costs about ₩15,000 to ₩20,000. Visiting tip: arrive when the palace opens, watch the changing of the guard, then walk the central axis. Allow 2 to 3 hours. After leaving, walk to the Bukchon Hanok Village to the north, or to Seochon's café street and Tongin Market to the west. Getting there: Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5, takes you right to the gate. Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station, is a 5-minute walk away. Notes: the palace is closed on Tuesdays. There is little shade inside in summer, so bring sun protection. Free Chinese-language tours are offered at set times each day.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby