Gyeongbokgung Palace offers an unforgettable journey through Korean royal history with five must-visit spots
If you're planning to visit Korea's grandest royal palace, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: the must-see spots, how to get free admission with hanbok rental, when to catch the famous guard ceremony, and insider tips that'll make your visit unforgettable.
Why Gyeongbokgung Should Be on Your Seoul Itinerary
Gyeongbokgung, which translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," isn't just Seoul's largest palace—it's the soul of Korean royal history. Built in 1395 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, this massive complex once housed over 500 buildings and served as the political and cultural heart of Korea for centuries.
Though destroyed during Japanese invasions and later colonial rule, extensive restoration efforts since the 1990s have brought much of the palace's former glory back to life. Today, the 330-building complex spanning over 100 acres offers visitors a genuine glimpse into Korea's royal past, complete with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and cultural performances that bring history to life.
What makes Gyeongbokgung special isn't just its historical significance—it's the experience. Walking through the grand gates, exploring pavilions that seem to float on water, and witnessing traditional ceremonies creates a connection to Korea's past that no museum can match.
The Hanbok Hack: Free Admission Plus Amazing Photos
Here's the best-kept secret that's not really a secret anymore: wear traditional Korean clothing called hanbok to the palace, and you get in completely free. This isn't a small perk—standard admission costs 3,000 won, and the hanbok experience itself is worth far more than the entrance fee you're saving.
How Hanbok Rental Works
Dozens of rental shops cluster around Gyeongbokgung in neighborhoods like Samcheong-dong, Insadong, and Bukchon, all within 5-15 minutes walking distance from the palace. Rental typically costs 15,000-30,000 won for a 4-hour period, which gives you plenty of time to visit the palace, take photos, and explore nearby areas.
The process is straightforward: arrive at the shop, choose your hanbok style and color from hundreds of options, get help putting it on properly (staff are experienced with tourists and very patient), and head to the palace. Most shops provide lockers for your belongings, and some even offer hair styling services for an additional fee.
Important Hanbok Rules for Free Entry
Not all hanbok-inspired outfits qualify for free admission. To get in free, you need to wear a complete, traditional hanbok—not just a hanbok skirt with a modern t-shirt or fusion-style outfits. Men need the full traditional top and pants set. The palace staff at the gate check this, so make sure your rental shop provides authentic traditional hanbok if free admission is your goal.
Also note that Gyeongbokgung is closed every Tuesday, and most rental shops close on Tuesdays as well. Plan accordingly.
Pro Hanbok Tips
Rent early in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid crowds and get the best selection of colors and styles. Popular pastel tones and traditional designs tend to go quickly, especially on weekends.
While traditional Korean shoes look beautiful in photos, they're not practical for walking on gravel palace paths. Most visitors wear clean white sneakers and only swap to traditional shoes for specific photos. Rental shops understand this and won't judge.
Book ahead on weekends and holidays—popular shops fill up fast, especially during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage.
The 5 Must-Visit Spots in Gyeongbokgung
The palace grounds are massive, and you could easily spend half a day exploring. But if you're short on time or want to hit the highlights, these five spots are absolutely essential.
1. Gwanghwamun Gate & The Guard Ceremony
Start your visit at Gwanghwamun, the palace's magnificent main gate. This isn't just an entrance—it's the stage for one of Seoul's most popular cultural performances: the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony.
Held daily at 10 AM and 2 PM (except Tuesdays when the palace is closed), this 20-minute ceremony recreates the guard-changing procedures from the Joseon Dynasty. Eighty performers dressed in vibrant traditional uniforms march in precise formation to drumbeats and horn blasts, executing movements that have been passed down through centuries.
The ceremony is absolutely free to watch and doesn't require palace admission—you can view it from the plaza in front of the gate. However, arrive at least 20-30 minutes early for a good viewing spot, especially on weekends when crowds are substantial.
Pro tip: Look for the rubber circles marked on the ground near the gate. These show where the guards will line up during the ceremony, giving you the best photo angles.
2. Geunjeongjeon Hall: The Throne Room
Once you enter the palace grounds, head straight to Geunjeongjeon, the main throne hall where kings held state affairs and important ceremonies. This is the largest wooden structure remaining from the Joseon Dynasty, and its architectural grandeur is breathtaking.
The hall sits elevated on a double-tiered stone platform, surrounded by intricate stone railings carved with mythical animals. Inside, you'll see the dragon throne where Korean kings once sat, backed by a stunning painted screen depicting the sun, moon, and five peaks.
For photos, the long corridors with endless rows of red pillars on either side of the hall create perfect symmetrical backdrops. Stand between the pillars for side-profile shots that highlight hanbok's elegant lines.
3. Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: The Floating Masterpiece
Walk toward the palace's center and you'll encounter what many consider Gyeongbokgung's most beautiful structure: Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. This architectural marvel appears to float on a large rectangular pond, supported by 48 stone pillars.
Kings used this pavilion for royal banquets and diplomatic receptions with foreign envoys. Today, it's one of the most photographed spots in Seoul, particularly stunning when its reflection shimmers in the pond water.
The best photo angle is from across the pond, especially near the weeping willows. The reflection shot creates a poetic, almost dreamlike image. Visit during different times of day for varying light—morning offers soft tones, while late afternoon provides golden hour magic.
Currently, visitors cannot enter the pavilion itself, but viewing it from the surrounding paths is equally spectacular.
4. National Folk Museum of Korea
Located on the palace grounds (accessible through a separate entrance on the east side), this free museum offers context that enhances your palace visit. Three main exhibition halls display artifacts from prehistoric times through the end of the Joseon Dynasty, with nearly 100,000 items in the collection.
The outdoor exhibit area is particularly engaging, featuring full-scale replicas of traditional Korean homes, farming tools, and everyday objects that show how people actually lived. This hands-on, interactive approach makes history tangible and helps you understand the palace in its proper cultural context.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours here, either before exploring the palace to gain historical background or afterward to deepen your understanding. The museum is closed on Mondays, so schedule accordingly.
5. Hyangwonjeong Pavilion: The Hidden Gem
Tucked away in the northern section of the palace grounds, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion offers a quieter, more intimate experience than the busy main areas. This hexagonal pavilion sits on an island in a small pond, connected to the mainland by a charming wooden bridge called Chwihyanggyo.
The setting is particularly magical during autumn when surrounding trees explode in red and gold colors, or in winter when snow creates a serene white landscape. Spring brings cherry blossoms and early greenery, while summer offers lush foliage.
Because it's farther from the main entrance, Hyangwonjeong sees fewer crowds, making it perfect for peaceful contemplation or unhurried photography sessions. The walk there also takes you through beautiful garden paths that many visitors skip.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Information
Hours and Admission
Gyeongbokgung Palace Hours:
- March-October: 9 AM - 6 PM
- November-February: 9 AM - 5 PM
- Closed: Every Tuesday
- Last entry: 1 hour before closing
Admission Fees:
- Adults (19-64): 3,000 won
- Youth (7-18): 1,500 won
- Free: Children under 6, seniors 65+, anyone wearing traditional hanbok
- Free for everyone: Last Wednesday of each month (Culture Day)
Combination tickets covering four palaces and Jongmyo Shrine are available for 10,000 won, valid for three months.
Getting There
The palace is centrally located and easily accessible:
- Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5): 3-minute walk
- Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5, Exit 2): 7-minute walk
Both stations have clear signage directing you to the palace. If you're coming from popular tourist areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae, the subway journey takes 15-30 minutes.
Best Times to Visit
The palace shines in every season, but timing matters:
Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms occasionally bloom in late March and early April, creating stunning photo opportunities. Weather is mild and pleasant, though crowds increase.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with frequent rain in July. Early morning visits before 10 AM or late afternoon after 4 PM offer more comfortable temperatures. The palace grounds are lush and green.
Autumn (September-November): Peak season for good reason. Comfortable temperatures, colorful foliage, and clear skies make this ideal visiting time. Expect larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Winter (December-February): Fewer tourists, potential snow creating magical landscapes, but cold temperatures make outdoor exploration challenging. Wear thermal layers under your hanbok if renting.
Insider Tips
Free guided tours in English run daily from the information center at Heungnyemun Gate. Tours last 60-90 minutes, require no reservation, and provide valuable historical context you'd miss exploring solo.
Download the Gyeongbokgung Palace official app or use Naver Map to navigate the grounds. The complex is huge, and it's easy to miss key spots without guidance.
Wear comfortable shoes. The palace grounds feature gravel paths and uneven stone surfaces. Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are essential, even if you're wearing hanbok.
Bring water and snacks, especially in summer. While there are vendors near entrances, options within the palace grounds are limited.
Nearby Attractions: Extend Your Cultural Experience
Your palace visit pairs perfectly with these nearby attractions, all within easy walking distance:
Bukchon Hanok Village (10 minutes): Traditional Korean houses preserved in their historic setting. Wander narrow alleys and experience residential Seoul from centuries past.
Samcheong-dong (5 minutes): Charming neighborhood packed with art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafés. Perfect for post-palace refreshment.
Insadong (15 minutes): Seoul's antique and art district, featuring traditional tea houses, galleries, craft shops, and street food vendors.
National Palace Museum (on palace grounds): Free museum dedicated specifically to Joseon Dynasty royal artifacts, including stunning costumes and jewelry.
Cheonggyecheon Stream (15 minutes): Modern urban renewal project offering peaceful walkways along a restored stream right in downtown Seoul.
Making Memories That Last
Gyeongbokgung Palace isn't just about ticking off a tourist attraction—it's about immersing yourself in a culture, stepping into history, and creating those Instagram-worthy moments that make people back home jealous (in a good way).
Whether you're posing in hanbok with the palace as your backdrop, watching the guard ceremony with wide-eyed wonder, or simply sitting quietly by Hyangwonjeong Pavilion contemplating the passage of time, the palace offers experiences that stay with you long after you leave.
Take your time. Don't rush. Notice the details—the carved dragons on stone railings, the painted colors on wooden eaves, the way sunlight filters through traditional windows. Let the palace speak to you about Korea's past, and you'll understand why this place continues to captivate millions of visitors every year.
So put on that hanbok, strike a pose at Gyeonghoeru, watch the guards march in their colorful uniforms, and soak in 600 years of history. Gyeongbokgung is waiting to show you why Korea's royal heritage is worth celebrating.
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