Gyeongbokgung PalaceGyeongbokgung · Bukchon 3

Photo: KTO

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung was the main palace of the Joseon dynasty and is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces. Through Gwanghwamun Gate you reach Geunjeongjeon, the throne hall, and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which seems to float on its pond.

The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony takes place in front of Gwanghwamun at around 10:00 and 14:00 (about 20 minutes each). Entry is free if you wear hanbok, so many visitors rent one for photos.

Key information

Hours	9:00–17:00/18:00/18:30 depending on season. Last entry 1 hour before closing
Admission	₩3,000 adult (free in hanbok). A fee increase is under review (date not set)
Closed	Tuesdays
Time needed	about 2 hours
Nearest station	Gyeongbokgung Stn / Anguk Stn (Line 3)
Area	Gyeongbokgung · Bukchon

Hours and fees are estimates as of 2026-10 and may change. Please check official sources before you go.

Tip
Closed on Tuesdays. Changdeokgung closes on Mondays, so between the two you can always see one palace. Arrive at opening to avoid crowds.

Plan a trip with Gyeongbokgung Palace

Getting there

From	Route	Time	Fare (approx.)
Incheon Airport	AREX all-stop train → change at Seoul Station → Line 4 → change at Chungmuro to Line 3	~82 min	6,300 KRW
Gimpo Airport	AREX (all-stop) → Line 4 → change at Chungmuro to Line 3	~43 min	1,750 KRW
Seoul Station	Line 4 → change at Chungmuro to Line 3	~15 min	1,550 KRW

Times are to the Gyeongbokgung · Bukchon area's nearest station; walk from there.

Nearby spots

Photo: KTO
Bukchon Hanok VillageGyeongbokgung · Bukchon · ~800 mA residential hanok neighbourhood. The restricted zone is open to visitors 10:00–17:00 only; violations can be fined.
Photo: KTO
Samcheong-dongGyeongbokgung · Bukchon · ~700 mA calm street of galleries and cafés.
Photo: KTO
Gwanghwamun SquareGyeongbokgung · Bukchon · ~800 mStatues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, in front of the palace gate.
Photo: KTO
Changdeokgung PalaceGyeongbokgung · Bukchon · ~1.2 kmUNESCO-listed palace. Closed Mondays. Adults ₩3,000 (Secret Garden extra, limited entry).
Photo: KTO
Insadong-gil & SsamziegilIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~900 mTraditional crafts, hanji paper and tea houses — great for souvenirs.
Photo: KTO
Cheonggyecheon StreamIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~1.2 kmA downtown streamside walkway, beautifully lit at night.
Photo: KTO
Ikseon-dong Hanok StreetIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~1.3 kmRetro alleys packed with renovated hanok cafés and restaurants.