Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Seoul and all of South Korea. Built in 1395 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, it served for centuries as the country’s political and cultural center. Its name translates to “Palace of Great Heavenly Blessing,” reflecting its significance in Korean history. Nestled at the foot of Mount Bukhansan, the palace complex is striking in scale, architectural elegance, and serene atmosphere. Visitors can admire stunning traditional Korean pavilions, royal gardens, and the vibrant changing of the guard ceremony.
We’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. Inside, you’ll find all the practical information you need—how to get there, opening hours, ticket prices, must-see spots, whether to join a guided tour, and many other tips to make the most of your experience.
Where Is Gyeongbokgung Palace and How to Get There
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. It’s located right in the heart of the city, in the Jongno-gu district, at the foot of the scenic Bukhansan Mountain. The palace is just steps from Gwanghwamun Square and close to several other major attractions, including Insadong, the Presidential Residence (Cheongwadae), and the National Folk Museum of Korea.
The palace has four main gates through which visitors can enter. The most popular and busiest is the southern gate, Gwanghwamun. To the west is Yeongchumun Gate, while Sinmumun Gate serves as the northern entrance. The eastern entrance is located near the National Folk Museum of Korea.
By Subway
The nearest subway station to Gyeongbokgung Palace is Gyeongbokgung Station (경복궁역) on Line 3 (the orange line). Exit 5 leads directly to the palace’s main entrance, Gwanghwamun Gate. From most of Seoul’s major neighborhoods, the journey takes around 20 minutes.
By Bus
Several bus stops are located just a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace, making it easy to reach no matter where you’re coming from in Seoul. Depending on your starting point, you can take one of the following bus routes: 0212, 1020, 1711, 7016, 7022, 1020, 109, 171, 272, 602, 606, 7025, 708, 9708.
With a Guided Tour
Taking a guided tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace can be a truly rewarding experience, especially if you’re interested in Korean history and want a deeper understanding of the buildings, rituals, and architectural details. Without a guide, the palace may seem simply beautiful but hard to fully grasp—many elements, like the layout of the halls or symbolic decorations, carry deep meanings that are easy to miss on your own.
Free guided tours are regularly offered in various languages, including:
– English: Wednesday to Monday at 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM
– Chinese: Wednesday to Monday at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM
– Japanese: Wednesday to Monday at 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM
– Spanish: Friday and Saturday at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM
– French: Wednesday and Thursday at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM
Tours last about one hour to an hour and a half, and no reservation is required to join.
You can also book a broader tour of Seoul’s main attractions that includes a stop at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Gyeongbokgung Palace Opening Hours
The opening hours of the Gyeongbokgung Palace complex in Seoul vary by season:
- January and February: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:00 PM
- March to May: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM
- June to August: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, last entry at 5:30 PM
- September and October: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM
- November and December: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, last entry at 4:00 PM
The palace is closed every Tuesday.
Tickets for Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul
The entrance fee for the Gyeongbokgung Palace complex is 3,000 Korean won. Tickets are required for visitors aged 19 to 64.
Admission is free for those under 18, seniors aged 65 and over, and anyone wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean attire).
There are many hanbok rental shops near the palace. Rental prices typically start at 10,000 KRW (around 7 USD) for 2 to 4 hours, and often include accessories and hairstyling.
What to See at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is full of fascinating sites to explore, and we’ll highlight the most iconic ones.
It’s also a great idea to time your visit to catch the changing of the guard ceremony—a must-see moment during your tour.
Changing of the Guard
Every day (except Tuesday), Gyeongbokgung Palace hosts the changing of the guard ceremony twice a day. Guards dressed in colorful hanboks, carrying halberds, drums, and flags, march solemnly to the sound of traditional Korean music as they reenact the royal guard rotation.
The ceremony lasts about 20 minutes and is free to watch, even without entering the palace, as it takes place right in front of the main gates.
Throne Hall
Geunjeongjeon, or the Throne Hall, is the central and most symbolic building of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was the site of major state events such as coronations, receptions for foreign envoys, and official meetings.
The hall stands on a stone platform, surrounded by marble railings carved with guardian spirit motifs. Inside, the royal throne is adorned with symbols of the sun, moon, and five mountains, representing the monarch’s authority and the harmony of the universe.
This architectural masterpiece reflects the order, symmetry, and solemnity of the Joseon era.
Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
Set on a small island in the middle of a pond, surrounded by trees and flowers, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion is especially beautiful in spring and autumn. Built in the mid-19th century, it served as a peaceful retreat for the royal family. A graceful wooden bridge, gently curved and decorated with traditional patterns, leads to the pavilion.
National Folk Museum of Korea
The National Folk Museum of Korea is located within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Its exhibits are designed as a journey through Korean history, featuring reconstructions of village homes, shops, street scenes, and festive ceremonies.
Special attention is given to the Joseon dynasty’s culture and the major transformations that took place during the 20th century.
