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.
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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.
What you actually see
- 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.
Honest expectations
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.
What to pack for Gyeongbokgung Palace
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
