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Gyeongbokgung

, Sajik-ro, Seoul

Description

Gyeongbokgung (경복궁) or Gyeongbok Palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, construction started at the end of the 14th century but the complex was burnt 200 years later during the Japanese invasions. It was only reconstructed in 1867 but the Imperial family had to leave in 1895 and 40% of the over 300 buildings have so far been restored. The main structures include (among others) the walls and several gates such as Gwanghwamun (the largest one) and Heungnyemun, the Gyeonghoeru (Royal Banquet Hall) and Hyangwonjeong pavilions, the Throne Hall, and the Jagyeongjeon Hall.

Access & Transport

The palace is in the Jongno district and the namesake Gyeongbokgung station (line 3) is at the southeast corner of the complex with bus options along the eastern and western edges as well.

Instructions & Recommendations

There are free guided tours scheduled at various times of day in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese or Bahasa Indonesia (info available on the website under Visitor Information section). The National Palace Museum of Korea, Cheonggyecheon, and the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History are all a few mins walk away from the palace.

Meta review

This is one of Seoul's iconic attractions and easily the most popular sight. Online reviews are mostly excellent, often amazed at the large number of buildings (many of which look quite new), enjoying the gardens and low admission fee (!). The only drawbacks are that it gets quite touristy and there are some ongoing renovation works. Recurring tip to wear comfortable shoes as this visit entails a fair bit of walking.

Environmental & Social

Low carbon footprint. Part of the country's architectural and historical heritages

Conclusion

Gyeongbokgung is core to the history of Seoul and the country and also happens to be extremely impressive by its sheer scale. Not the height or artistic refinement but still an attraction that we would recommend be included in the itinerary of everybody's first visit to the city.

Key positive

Visually stunning gates

Enjoyable gardens and gorgeous Hyangwonjeong Pavilion

Centrally located and cheap admission fee

Key negative

Not that much to see within the buildings

Suitability

Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility although not every building has a ramp access

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission is 1h before closing. Opens until 18h30 June through August.

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:2h 15m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Mar, 01

Season 1

MONDAY09:00 - 18:00

TUESDAY -

WEDNESDAY09:00 - 18:00

THURSDAY09:00 - 18:00

FRIDAY09:00 - 18:00

SATURDAY09:00 - 18:00

SUNDAY09:00 - 18:00

Start of Season 2:Nov, 01

Season 2

MONDAY09:00 - 17:00

TUESDAY -

WEDNESDAY09:00 - 17:00

THURSDAY09:00 - 17:00

FRIDAY09:00 - 17:00

SATURDAY09:00 - 17:00

SUNDAY09:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Group price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
₩0
0
Adult
19 - 64
₩3,000
2400
Child
7 - 18
₩0
0
Infant
0 - 6
₩0
0

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