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Gyeongbokgung

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Gyeongbokgung

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Located in Jongno-gu, this was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors go here to see traditional Korean palace architecture and experience the layout of the former royal court. The grounds feature several large halls and pavilions surrounded by stone walls and gardens.

Getting There

The palace is situated in the central district of Seoul. From the city center, it is accessible via the Seoul Metropolitan Subway (Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station). Depending on your starting point in the center, the journey typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Allow approximately 2 to 4 hours to walk through the main courtyards, visit the pavilions, and explore the perimeter of the grounds.

When to Visit

The site gets crowded, particularly during weekends and public holidays. Visiting early in the morning helps avoid the largest groups of tourists. The palace is open year-round, with the landscape changing between the four seasons.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, the palace can be combined with several other cultural sites within walking distance:

  • National Folk Museum of Korea (0.3km)
  • National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, South Korea (0.3km)
  • National Palace Museum of Korea (0.4km)
  • Bukchon Hanok Village (0.7km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Gyeongbokgung

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Seoul 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Seoul grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Seoul 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Seoul grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

National Folk Museum of Korea

Museums & galleries

National Folk Museum of Korea

This museum collects and displays everyday customs and tools from Korea and around the world, offering a vivid look at life in the past. Visitors can explore a wide range of folklore artifacts at both the main branch in Seoul and the Paju branch.

0.3 km away
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, South Korea

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, South Korea

Opened in 1969, this is Korea's leading museum of modern and contemporary art, collecting and exhibiting works from both Korea and abroad. Its rotating special exhibitions and permanent collection trace the development of Korean contemporary art.

0.3 km away
National Palace Museum of Korea

Museums & galleries

National Palace Museum of Korea

The National Palace Museum of Korea, located within Gyeongbokgung Palace, opened in 2005 and researches, collects, and exhibits artifacts handed down from the royal court. It's a leading cultural course in Seoul, best visited together with the palace.

0.4 km away
Bukchon Hanok Village

Shopping & districts

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional hanok village located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, spanning the Gahoe-dong and Samcheong-dong neighborhoods. Strolling its alleys lined with galleries and unique cafés, visitors can soak up the atmosphere of traditional Korean houses.

0.7 km away
Blue House

Castles & palaces

Blue House

Formerly the office and residence of South Korea's president, also widely known as the "Blue House." Located in Seoul's Jongno District, it's a good place to explore traces of modern Korean history.

0.8 km away
Gwanghwamun Plaza

Parks & gardens

Gwanghwamun Plaza

Gwanghwamun Square is an urban plaza in front of Gwanghwamun Gate in Seoul. With a statue of King Sejong, it's a popular spot for strolling and cultural events.

0.8 km away