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Gyeongbokgung: Joseon's grandest palace

The Joseon dynasty's main palace and the natural starting point for Seoul. From Gwanghwamun gate the grand axis runs to the Geunjeongjeon throne hall and the Gyeonghoeru pavilion, with Bugaksan mountain rising like a folding screen behind. Wear a hanbok and entry is free, it's a favourite spot for portrait photos against the palace.

Gyeongbokgung: Joseon's grandest palace

History

Founded in 1395 by Taejo Yi Seong-gye at the birth of the Joseon dynasty as its principal palace. ‘Gyeongbok’ means ‘to be greatly blessed.’ It burned down during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and lay in ruins for some 270 years until Regent Heungseon Daewongun rebuilt it in 1867, only for it to be heavily damaged again under Japanese colonial rule. A long restoration since the 1990s has revived its core halls, Gwanghwamun, Geunjeongjeon and Gyeonghoeru.

Getting there

Directly linked to Exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), and walkable from Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5). Enter by the main gate on the Gwanghwamun Square side to catch the Changing of the Guard.

Tips

  • ·Closed Tuesdays; free entry if you wear a hanbok
  • ·Changing of the Guard is usually 10am & 2pm (not Mondays)
  • ·Right by Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 4; allow 1.5–2 hours
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