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Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1395. Located in central Seoul against Mount Bugaksan. The name means "Palace of Radiant Happiness." It's a living lesson in Korean history and architecture.

Palace History

Built three years after the Joseon Dynasty was founded. Originally included over 500 buildings. Burned by Japanese forces in 1592, lay in ruins for 270 years. Reconstruction began in 1867. Much destroyed during Japanese occupation (1910-1945). By 1945, only 40 buildings remained. Restoration continues since 1990.

Architecture

The layout reflects...

Practical Information

Updated: Jan 1, 2026

Visit Duration

Minimum1.5 hours
Recommended2 hours
Maximum3 hours

Entrance Fee

Adult
3,000 KRW~3,000 $
Child
1,500 KRW~1,500 $

Free with hanbok

Best Time to Visit

Morning for guard ceremony. Spring/autumn for best weather. Night viewing in season.

Crowd Level

High — many people

Price Range

Budget
Official Website

How to Get There

Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5. Direct access to palace.

What to Expect

Royal palace, throne hall, museums, gardens. Guard changing ceremony 10:00 & 14:00.

Best Photo Spot

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion reflection in pond. Throne hall Geunjeongjeon.

When to Visit

Best Time

AprMayOctNov

Good Time

MarSepDec

Avoid

JulAug

Connectivity

Wi-Fi
Available
Charging
No outlets
Mobile signal
Good

Facilities & Services

restrooms
guided tours
gift shop
museum
cafe

Working Hours

Updated: Jan 1, 2026
Monday09:00 — 17:00
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday09:00 — 17:00
Thursday09:00 — 17:00
Friday09:00 — 17:00
Saturday09:00 — 17:00
Sunday09:00 — 17:00
Note

Gyeongbokgung is the main and largest of the five Joseon dynasty palaces in Seoul (1395). Closed Tuesdays. Guard changing ceremony at 10:00 and 14:00 (except Tue). Free guided tours in various languages. Free entry in hanbok (traditional dress). Last entry 1 hour before closing.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access
Partially accessible
Audio Guide
Available
Staff Assistance
Available

faq.title

faq.subtitle Gyeongbokgung Palace

Yes! Free entry + amazing photos. Rentals from 15,000 won for 2 hours.

Travel Tips

Useful tips for visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace

Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best light and to secure a good spot. Weekends are very crowded.

Bring a tripod for long exposure shots of city lights. Photography is allowed everywhere except some government buildings.

Reviews

Weather

Average temperature by month

Nowweather-5°
51%10 м/с
Todayweather2°-8°
Tomorrowweather0°-9°
Thuweather7°0°
Friweather7°-2°
Satweather3°-3°
Sunweather6°-4°
Monweather2°-8°
2°
-6°Jan
5°
-3°Feb
10°
2°Mar
18°
8°Apr
23°
13°May
27°
18°Jun
29°
22°Jul
30°
22°Aug
26°
17°Sep
20°
10°Oct
12°
3°Nov
4°
-3°Dec

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