A Visitor's Guide to Gyeongbokgung Palace

Place information

Korean name

경복궁

Address

161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161)

Nearest station

Gyeongbokgung Station (경복궁역, Line 3) (Exit 5)

Opening hours

09:00–17:00 (Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec) / 09:00–18:00 (Mar–May, Sep–Oct) / 09:00–18:30 (Jun–Aug). Ticket sales close 1 hour before closing.

Closed

Every Tuesday (if it falls on a public holiday, the palace stays open and closes the next weekday instead)

Price range

budget

Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, and it's the grandest one standing in central Seoul today. If it's your first time in the city, this is a great place to start.

Getting there and getting in

Take Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5 — it's a 2-minute walk. General adult admission is KRW 3,000. Age exemptions differ: Korean citizens 24 and under or 65+, and foreign visitors 18 and under or 65+. Proof of eligibility may be requested.

Wear hanbok for free entry

Admission is free if you're wearing traditional Korean hanbok. There are plenty of hanbok rental shops near the palace, and it makes for great photos too.

Don't miss

Geunjeongjeon — the main throne hall, where state ceremonies were held.
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion — a pavilion over a pond, one of the best photo spots.
Royal Guard Changing Ceremony — held twice a day in front of Gwanghwamun Gate (cancelled in rain).

Nearby

The National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum sit right next to Gyeongbokgung and pair well with a visit. Head west and you'll reach Seochon; head east and you'll connect to the Bukchon Hanok Village.

Check the closing day (usually Tuesday) before you go. Arriving early in the morning also means fewer crowds and cooler weather.