What are the opening hours for Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Operating hours vary by season: 09:00–17:00 (Jan-Feb, Nov-Dec), 09:00–18:00 (Mar-May, Sep-Oct), and 09:00–18:30 (Jun-Aug). Last admission is 1 hour before closing.

How much is the admission fee for Gyeongbokgung Palace?

The fee is 3,000 KRW (approx. $2.05 USD) for adults (ages 25-64). Admission is free for children (6 and under), seniors (65+), and visitors wearing Hanbok (traditional Korean attire).

When is Gyeongbokgung Palace closed?

Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed every Tuesday.

What is the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony?

It is a reenactment of the traditional guard changing ceremony from the Joseon Dynasty, held at 10:00 and 14:00 daily at Gwanghwamun Gate.

What are the must-see spots inside Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Key spots include Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pavilion.

Are there night tours at Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Yes, special night tours are offered mainly in spring and fall. Tickets must be booked in advance online, typically through NOL Ticket (a Korean online ticketing platform).

Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul: A Complete Guide (Hours, Fees & Tips)

Located in the heart of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace's Gwanghwamun Gate is a vital place that showcases the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty. The tranquil charm of the palace and its majestic architecture create a harmonious blend. In this post, we will provide a detailed guide to the latest Gyeongbokgung Palace admission fees, operating hours, must-see courses you'll regret missing, and nearby attractions to help you enjoy your visit more efficiently.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Visitor Information

Please note that the palace is closed every Tuesday.

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion at Gyeongbokgung Palace at night

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, Gyeongbokgung Palace

Operating Hours

Period	Operating Hours
January–February	09:00–17:00
March–May	09:00–18:00
June–August	09:00–18:30
September–October	09:00–18:00
November–December	09:00–17:00

※ Last admission is 1 hour before closing.

Admission Fee

Domestic/International Visitors: 3,000 KRW (approx. $2.05 USD) for ages 25–64.
Free Admission: Free for ages 6 and under, ages 65 and over, and visitors wearing Hanbok (traditional Korean attire). Free admission is also available on the last Wednesday of every month (Culture Day).

Tips for Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace

Here are some tips to make your visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace even more special. Keep these in mind when planning your trip.

Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

This event reenacts the duty rotations of the royal guards from the Joseon Dynasty. You can see the disciplined guards in their traditional uniforms.

Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

Event Times: 10:00, 14:00 (Twice daily)
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
Location: Gwanghwamun Gate, Gyeongbokgung Palace

Hanbok Rental Tips

Visitors wearing Hanbok (traditional Korean attire) can enter for free. There are many Hanbok rental shops around Gyeongbokgung Palace, with prices varying by shop and Hanbok type.

Visitor wearing Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Visiting in Hanbok

Seasonal Tips

Spring/Fall: This is the best time to experience the palace's beauty. You can enjoy the scenery with vibrant flowers and autumn foliage.
Winter: The tranquil view of the snow-covered palace has a special charm. Many people visit on snowy days to see the winter landscape. However, the temperature is low, so it's best to prepare warm clothing.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Opening

Competition for Gyeongbokgung Palace night opening tickets is fierce, so it's best to prepare in advance.

Night Opening Period and Hours

Night openings are mainly held during the spring and fall seasons. The exact schedule must be checked on the Gyeongbokgung Palace website.
It is usually open from 19:00 to 21:30, with last admission at 20:30.

How to Book Night Opening Tickets

Night opening tickets can be booked through NOL Ticket (a Korean online ticketing platform).
Reservations may be limited to 2 tickets per person.

Night Viewing Course

During the night opening, you can view the main halls such as Gwanghwamun, Heungnyemun, Geunjeongjeon, and Gyeonghoeru.

Night Viewing Notes

Gyeongbokgung Palace's night opening proceeds as scheduled even in light rain, but the schedule may change depending on weather conditions.
Wheelchair and stroller rentals are not available during night viewing, so you must prepare them in advance.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Must-See Spots: What Not to Miss

If you visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, be sure to stop by these four places. You can feel the historical significance and beauty of the palace at the same time.

Gwanghwamun Gate: The main gate and symbol of Gyeongbokgung Palace. You can see the Haechi statues guarding the front of the gate, along with the Woldae (platform) that was restored in 2023.

Full view of Gwanghwamun Gate at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gwanghwamun Gate (Source: Korea Heritage Service)

Geunjeongjeon Hall: The main throne hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace, designated as a National Treasure. It was the venue for royal coronations and official events.

Geunjeongjeon Hall at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Geunjeongjeon Hall (Source: Korea Heritage Service)

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: A pavilion built over a pond, where royal banquets were held. The view of Gyeonghoeru against the pond is one of the best photo spots in Gyeongbokgung.

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion surrounded by pond at Gyeongbokgung

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion (Source: Korea Heritage Service)

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion: A small pond and pavilion located behind Geunjeongjeon Hall, boasting a beautiful landscape. It's a great place for a quiet stroll, offering different charms each season.

View of Hyangwonjeong Pavilion at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion (Source: Korea Heritage Service)

Nearby Attractions You Shouldn't Miss

Near Gyeongbokgung Palace, there are various attractions that are great to visit along with the palace. Consider your travel route when making your plans.

Seochon Village

Located west of Gyeongbokgung, this village is characterized by its tranquil atmosphere and quaint charm. Traditional hanoks, modern cafes, unique souvenir shops, and small art galleries line the alleys. With few large franchises, exploring the unique spaces is fun. At Tongin Market, you can also have a special experience of tasting various foods using the 'Yeopjeon Dosirak' (brass coin lunchbox).

Seochon Hanok Village

National Folk Museum of Korea

Located within Gyeongbokgung Palace, this museum systematically displays the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Korean people. You can get a glimpse of the lives and wisdom of our ancestors through various artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era, making it especially educational for families.

National Folk Museum of Korea

National Palace Museum of Korea

This museum specializes in the history and culture of the Joseon royal family. It displays a wide range of items from royal clothing, furniture, and accessories to national treasures. It's a great place to visit if you want to deeply understand the beauty of royal palace architecture.

National Palace Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

Located right next to Gwanghwamun Square, facing Gyeongbokgung Palace. You can view exhibitions covering the modern and contemporary history of South Korea from the late 19th century to the present. The rooftop garden offers a panoramic view of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square.

National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

Gwanghwamun Square

A wide square stretching in front of Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It is a symbolic space representing Korea, with statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin at its center. The square's floor is inscribed with records of Admiral Yi's victories, and it serves as a public rest area where various cultural events are held.

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Gwanghwamun Square

In this post, we've explored Gyeongbokgung Palace Gwanghwamun, focusing on operating hours, admission fees, must-see courses, and nearby attractions. Gyeongbokgung Palace is an important place where you can experience Korean history and culture. Referring to the latest information will make your visit even more enjoyable. We hope you add Gyeongbokgung Palace to your next travel plans and experience the charm and history of Seoul.