Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grandest of Seoul's royal palaces - a majestic complex of gates, throne halls and pavilions from the Joseon dynasty, set against the mountains, with a colourful changing of the guard.
Updated 5 August 2026
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Gyeongbokgung is the grandest and most important of the five royal palaces of Seoul, the main residence of the kings of the Joseon dynasty, first built in 1395. Restored after wartime destruction, its majestic gates, throne halls, pavilions and lotus ponds spread beneath the backdrop of Bugaksan mountain in the heart of the modern city. The colourful changing of the royal guard ceremony at its main gate is a popular spectacle.
Highlights
- The throne hall - the majestic Geunjeongjeon, the king's throne hall.
- Gyeonghoeru Pavilion - the elegant pavilion on its lotus pond.
- The changing of the guard - the colourful ceremony at Gwanghwamun gate.
- The mountain backdrop - the palace against Bugaksan in the city.
When to go
Spring and autumn for the mildest weather and cherry blossom or autumn colour; the changing of the guard runs at set times through the day. Wearing traditional hanbok, easily hired nearby, grants free entry and makes for wonderful photos.
Practical notes
It is very popular, so it gets crowded, especially at the guard ceremony and in blossom season; go early. It is a faithful reconstruction rather than an untouched original, as the palace was destroyed and rebuilt. It is closed on Tuesdays. Hiring a hanbok for free entry is a fun, popular thing to do.
Nearby
Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong and the other royal palaces are within walking distance.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q482485, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Gyeongbokgung Palace
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
