Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see landmark in Seoul, blending history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re drawn to its rich past, picturesque grounds, or nearby attractions, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Quick Overview/Highlights
- One of Seoul’s top attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace welcomes over 5 million visitors each year. (Looking for more? Check out the 60 best things to do in Seoul.)
- Affordable entry: Tickets can be purchased on-site for just a couple of dollars, making it accessible for all.
- Perfectly located: Surrounded by other iconic landmarks, it fits seamlessly into a 1-day Seoul itinerary. (See the full itinerary at the bottom of this post for inspiration!)
History of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace, often referred to as the most iconic Korean palace, was the main royal residence of the Joseon dynasty, built in 1395. The name “Gyeongbok” translates to “Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” reflecting its significance as a home for the royal family and the seat of government. As the largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung once housed 7,700 rooms across a sprawling complex.
However, the palace has faced multiple cycles of destruction and restoration. It was devastated by fire during the Imjin War (1592–1598) and left abandoned for over two centuries. In the 19th century, Gyeongbokgung Palace was meticulously restored to its former glory, only to suffer systematic destruction during Imperial Japan’s occupation of Korea in the early 20th century. Despite these setbacks, several key structures, including Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, survived both the occupation and the Korean War.
The South Korean government initiated an ambitious 40-year restoration project in 1989, aiming to rebuild many of the palace’s lost structures. By 2009, approximately 40% of Gyeongbokgung Palace had been restored or reconstructed, with ongoing efforts to revive its historic grandeur. The removal of the Japanese General Government Building in 1995 marked a pivotal moment in reclaiming the site’s heritage. Visitors today can experience a blend of history and resilience while exploring the heart of this remarkable Korean palace.
My Experience
The first time I visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, it felt truly magical. We were staying in the popular neighborhood of Myeongdong, just a 20-minute walk from the Korean palace. On our way, we took a walking tour, visiting iconic Seoul landmarks (see our exact itinerary later in the blog!) before finally arriving at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
To enter the palace grounds, you’ll pass through three gates: Gwanghwamun Gate, Heungnyemun Gate, and Geunjeongjeon Gate. Unfortunately, we accidentally missed the first gate and entered through a side entrance near the ticket office, skipping part of the intended experience. While not ideal, our detour led us to witness a group practicing the royal changing of the guard ceremony—a unique sight that almost made up for our mistake.
After purchasing our tickets at the booth, we entered through Heungnyemun Gate. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most famous of Seoul’s five grand palaces and one of the city’s top attractions, so it was bustling with visitors. Surprisingly, the crowds didn’t detract from the experience. In fact, seeing tourists dressed in vibrant hanboks added a charming and authentic touch to the Korean palace atmosphere.
Past the final gate, we were greeted by Geunjeongjeon Hall, the throne hall where kings once held formal audiences with their officials. Visitors are usually only allowed to admire the building from the outside, as we did, however sometimes you can reserve a time to view the interior—a must for anyone eager to fully explore Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Standout buildings at Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: A hall used for special state banquets during the Joseon Dynasty.
- Donggung: The living quarters of the crown prince and his wife, located south of Hyangwonjeong Pavilion.
- Hyangwonjeong Pavilion: A beautiful hexagonal pavilion built in 1873, surrounded by serene scenery.
Our final stop was the National Folk Museum of Korea, located next to the palace. Its outdoor exhibit transported us to mid-1900s Korea, with displays of children’s lunchboxes, vintage hair salons, and old restaurants. Watching my mom reflect on these artifacts made me wonder if they reminded her of her childhood. Inside, we explored three exhibitions highlighting Korean life, including the many celebrations that mark a Korean’s life: 90 days, 1 year, 60 years, and beyond.
One memorable exhibit featured a game where babies choose an item to predict their future. My mom, Simon, and I gave it a try: I chose a microphone (representing a public figure), my mom picked a stethoscope (representing a healthcare worker), and Simon selected a knot (representing good health)—arguably the best choice of all.
Events and Guided Tours at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changing of the Guard Ceremony
One of the most iconic events at Gyeongbokgung Palace is the royal changing of the guard ceremony. This vibrant tradition takes place in front of Gwanghwamun Gate every hour from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, except on Tuesdays when Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed. To secure a great view of the elaborate uniforms and precise movements, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Guided Tours
Enhance your visit with a guided tour, which dives deeper into the rich history of this Korean palace. Free guided tours are available without a reservation, starting at the Information Center near Heungnyemun Gate. Tours last between 1 to 1.5 hours and are offered in multiple languages:
- English: 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM (Wednesday–Monday)
- Chinese: 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM (Wednesday–Monday)
- Other languages (e.g., Japanese, Spanish): Check availability at the Information Center.
Joining a guided tour is an excellent way to gain a deeper appreciation for the history and cultural significance of this famous Korean palace.
Tickets for Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace is both affordable and convenient, making it one of the most accessible Korean palaces to explore.
General Admission
- Adults (19–64): 3,000 won (~2 USD)
- Children (7–18): 1,500 won (~1 USD)
- Free Admission: Adults over 64 and children under 7.
Combination Ticket
For those planning to visit multiple historical sites, the Combination Ticket offers great value:
- Adults: 10,000 won (~7 USD)
- Children: 5,000 won (~4 USD)
This ticket grants access to four palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung including the Secret Garden, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung) as well as Jongmyo Shrine.
Tickets can be purchased on-site at efficient ticket counters, so advance booking is not necessary. Lines are generally short, allowing you to quickly start your visit.
Free Entry with Hanbok Rental
Wear a traditional hanbok for free entry to the palace. Nearby hanbok rental shops include:
Renting a hanbok not only enhances your experience but also adds a charming cultural touch to your visit.
Opening Hours
Gyeongbokgung Palace’s opening hours vary by season, ensuring visitors have the best experience year-round. Below are the operating hours:
- March to May: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last admission: 5:00 PM)
- June to August: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Last admission: 5:30 PM)
- September to October: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last admission: 5:00 PM)
- November to February: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission: 4:00 PM)
The palace is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Insider tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and maximize your time exploring this iconic Korean palace.
How Much Time Do You Need at Gyeongbokgung Palace?
The time you spend at Gyeongbokgung Palace largely depends on your interests and itinerary. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
1 hour: Focus on exploring the palace’s key structures, such as Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion.
2-3 hours: Add a leisurely walk through the palace grounds and visit the National Folk Museum of Korea for an immersive experience of Korean culture and history.
Full day: Follow the itinerary in the next section to explore nearby landmarks like Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong, maximizing your visit to this iconic Korean palace.
A Perfect 1-Day Itinerary for Gyeongbokgung Palace and Surroundings
Seoul offers some incredible attractions, especially around Gyeongbokgung Palace. If you have an entire day to dedicate to this area (which I highly recommend!), here’s the exact itinerary I followed:
Morning: Explore Insadong Culture Street
Start your day in Myeongdong and make your way to the palace, passing through Insadong Culture Street. This charming walking street is lined with cafes, tea houses, bakeries, shops, and restaurants. One of my favorite spots was Ssamziegil, a collection of independently owned shops selling handcrafted goods. Simon, my mom, and I climbed up to the third floor, where colorful handkerchiefs and headbands adorned a shop. The owner graciously demonstrated how to fold the delicate fabric into a strip, perfect for fashion or practical use. It was a small price to pay for such a delightful interaction.
Lunch: Savor Traditional Korean Food
If you’re hungry, stop at a nearby restaurant like Doma Insadong for traditional Korean food, Sadong Myeonok for cold noodles, or Bukchon Son-mandu for dumplings. These spots offer delicious meals to fuel you for the rest of your day.
Midday: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
Continue north until you reach the main road, Yulgok-ro. Take a left and walk about 10 minutes. Along the way, stop at a Hanbok shop, such as Cham Hanbok Rental, to rent traditional attire for free entry into Gyeongbokgung Palace. Once you arrive at Gwanghwamun Gate, the entrance to this stunning Korean palace, buy your tickets at the booth on your right and begin your exploration. Spend time marveling at the palace architecture and visiting the National Folk Museum of Korea, located on the grounds.
Afternoon: Discover Bukchon Hanok Village
After exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace, head to Bukchon Hanok Village, one of the most popular hanok villages remaining in Korea. Exit onto Cheongwadae-ro, cross to Samcheong-dong, and wander through the street filled with classic Korean architecture and modern boutiques. Eventually, you’ll climb stairs leading to Bukchon Hanok Village. Be sure to stop at Bukchon Observatory to capture the essence of this traditional village with Namsan Seoul Tower in the backdrop.
Evening: Unwind at Cafe Onion Anguk
On your way back to Myeongdong, take a slight detour to Cafe Onion Anguk. This TikTok-famous cafe feels like a hidden refuge. Guests sitting inside must remove their shoes and sit on a pad by a table, adding to the cozy atmosphere. The pastries are picture-perfect, with intricate designs dusted in powdered sugar, like something out of a movie.
After a long but fulfilling day, the walk back to Myeongdong (about 40 minutes) will leave your feet grateful for a rest. You’ll have covered many of Seoul’s iconic landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, in one incredible walking tour, creating memories to last a lifetime.
And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out the 60 best things to do in Seoul for countless other adventures to add to your trip!
