Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the best places to visit in Seoul. It is beautiful, easy to reach by subway, and surrounded by great neighborhoods for food, cafes, and traditional streets. In this guide, you will learn what is Gyeongbokgung Palace, what to do at Gyeongbokgung Palace, what time Gyeongbokgung Palace opens, and what to do around/near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
1. What Is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Gyeongbokgung means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.” It was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty (Korea’s last royal dynasty). It was first built in 1395, and it is the largest of Seoul’s famous “Five Grand Palaces.”
This palace was once the center of Korea’s government and royal life. Over history, it was heavily damaged during wars and later periods, but it has been carefully restored. Today, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a strong symbol of Korean history and national identity.
If you want to understand traditional Korea in one place—royal architecture, ceremonies, and history—this is the best palace to start with.
2. What Time Does Gyeongbokgung Palace Open? (Hours, Closed Days, Tickets)
Gyeongbokgung Palace opens at 9:00 AM. Closing time changes by season.
Opening Hours (Seasonal)
- Nov – Feb: 09:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
- Mar – May: 09:00 – 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
- Jun – Aug: 09:00 – 18:30 (last entry 17:30)
- Sep – Oct: 09:00 – 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
Closed Day
- Closed every Tuesday
Admission Fee
- Adults (19–64): 3,000 KRW
- Children (18 and under): Free
- Seniors (65+): Free
Hanbok Bonus (Great Tip)
If you wear a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), entry is FREE. Many visitors rent Hanbok from shops near the palace for photos and the free entrance.
Night Viewing (Special Event)
Sometimes, Gyeongbokgung has night opening sessions (usually in spring and autumn). Tickets are limited and often sell out quickly online, so check official announcements if you want to go at night.
3. What to Do at Gyeongbokgung Palace (Best Things Inside)
There is a lot to do inside, even if you only have 1–2 hours. Here are the top experiences.
A) Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
This is one of the most famous things to do at Gyeongbokgung Palace. You will see guards in colorful uniforms with traditional music and movements.
Location: Gwanghwamun Gate (main entrance)
Common performance times include:
- Changing Ceremony: 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM (about 20 minutes)
- Other short guard performances happen around late morning and early afternoon (times can change by season)
Tip: Arrive 15–20 minutes early for a good spot, especially on weekends.
B) Must-See Buildings and Photo Spots
1) Geunjeongjeon (Main Throne Hall)
This is the main throne hall, where the king held important meetings and ceremonies. The building is big and impressive, and it helps you imagine the power of the Joseon royal court.
What to do here:
- Take wide photos of the hall and courtyard
- Look at the details on the roof and pillars
2) Gyeonghoeru Pavilion (Pavilion on the Pond)
This is one of the most photographed spots in the palace. The pavilion sits beside a large pond and was used for royal banquets and special events.
What to do here:
- Visit in the morning for softer light
- Take reflection photos on a calm day
3) Hyangwonjeong Pavilion (Quiet Scenic Area)
This is a smaller, peaceful pavilion near the back area of the palace. It is especially pretty in autumn and during seasonal changes.
What to do here:
- Slow walk, calm photos, less crowds
- Enjoy nature and traditional scenery
C) Visit the Museums Inside the Palace Grounds
National Palace Museum of Korea
Located near the palace entrance area, this museum shows royal items like artifacts, tools, and historic treasures connected to the Korean monarchy.
Good for:
- A quick indoor visit on hot or rainy days
- Learning what royal life looked like
National Folk Museum of Korea
This museum focuses on the everyday life of Korean people throughout history. It’s interesting if you want culture beyond kings and palaces.
Good for:
- Families
- People who want more “daily life” history
D) Simple Tips for Visiting (Easy and Helpful)
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings (less crowded)
- Plan at least: 2 hours for the palace + more if you add museums
- Wear comfortable shoes: The grounds are large
- For photos: Hanbok rental makes photos look amazing and helps you blend with the palace background
4. What to Do Around Gyeongbokgung Palace (Best Nearby Places)
One great thing about Gyeongbokgung Palace is the location. You can walk to many famous areas nearby.
East of the Palace: Bukchon Hanok Village (10–15 min walk)
Bukchon is a neighborhood with many traditional Korean houses called hanok.
What to do:
- Walk through small alleys for photos
- Visit a traditional tea house
- Enjoy quiet streets (go early to be respectful to residents)
West of the Palace: Seochon Village (5–10 min walk)
Seochon feels artistic and local, with small cafes, galleries, and shops.
What to do:
- Explore small streets and boutique cafes
- Visit Tongin Market, famous for its lunchbox-style experience and street snacks
South of the Palace: Gwanghwamun Square (right in front)
This large public square has important statues and views of the palace gate.
What to do:
- See the statue of King Sejong (creator of the Korean alphabet)
- See the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin
- Walk and take skyline photos with the palace area
North of the Palace: The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
The Blue House was Korea’s former presidential residence, known for its blue roof tiles. It is behind the palace area.
What to do:
- Tour the grounds (reservation rules may apply—check ahead)
Southeast: Insadong (great for souvenirs)
Insadong is famous for traditional shopping and cultural streets.
What to do:
- Buy souvenirs like pottery, fans, and paper goods
- Visit Ssamziegil, a multi-level craft shopping space
- Try traditional tea in a wooden tea house
5. What to Do Near Gyeongbokgung Palace: Easy Half-Day Itinerary
If you want a simple plan, follow this schedule:
- 9:30 AM – Rent a Hanbok near the palace (for free entry + photos)
- 10:00 AM – Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate
- 10:30 AM – Explore Geunjeongjeon (Throne Hall) and main courtyards
- 11:00 AM – Walk to Gyeonghoeru Pavilion for photos
- 11:30 AM – Head to the back for Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
- 12:00 PM – Visit the National Folk Museum (optional)
- 12:30 PM onward – Walk to Bukchon, Seochon, or Insadong for lunch and exploring
Lunch idea: try classic Korean dishes like bibimbap, samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), or noodles in nearby neighborhoods.
