Why You Must Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace When Traveling to Seoul, South Korea

Why You Must Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace When Traveling to Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern innovation. While there are countless attractions worth visiting, one place that should be at the top of your list is Gyeongbokgung Palace. This grand and historic site is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a gateway to Korea’s rich cultural heritage. In this blog post, we will explore why Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-visit, what you can expect during your visit, and how to make the most of your experience.

A Brief History of Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace, which means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” was built in 1395 during the early years of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). It was the main royal palace and served as the heart of Korea’s political and cultural activities.

Despite being burned down during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598), it was later reconstructed in the 19th century. Although much of the palace was again destroyed during Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945), significant restoration efforts have helped restore Gyeongbokgung to its former glory. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Korea’s resilience and history.

Why Gyeongbokgung Palace is a Must-Visit

1. A Stunning Example of Traditional Korean Architecture

Gyeongbokgung Palace is a masterpiece of Korean traditional architecture. The palace complex consists of multiple buildings, courtyards, and pavilions, all carefully designed to harmonize with the surrounding mountains and nature.
• Geunjeongjeon Hall: This is the palace’s main hall, where important state affairs and royal ceremonies took place. The building’s intricate wooden carvings and vibrant colors showcase the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty.
• Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: A beautiful pavilion built on a pond, Gyeonghoeru was used for royal banquets and diplomatic meetings. The reflection of the structure in the water creates a mesmerizing scene.
• Hyangwonjeong Pavilion: Located on a small island in a pond, this picturesque two-story pavilion is one of the most photographed spots in the palace.

Each of these structures reflects the elegance and harmony of Korean palace architecture, making Gyeongbokgung an awe-inspiring destination for architecture lovers and photographers alike.

2. The Iconic Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony

One of the highlights of visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace is witnessing the Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony. This performance, held at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily (except Tuesdays), recreates the traditional royal guard duty from the Joseon Dynasty.

Dressed in colorful hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), the guards march to the beat of traditional Korean music, carrying weapons and banners. The ceremony is free to watch and provides an immersive cultural experience that transports visitors back in time.

3. Experience Hanbok, Korea’s Traditional Attire

One of the best ways to enhance your visit is by renting a hanbok and exploring the palace grounds in traditional Korean attire.
• Why wear a hanbok? Not only does it make for amazing photos, but it also grants you free entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace!
• Where to rent hanbok? There are many hanbok rental shops near the palace, offering a variety of styles and colors. Prices typically range from ₩10,000 to ₩30,000 (about $8 to $25 USD) for a few hours of rental.

Wearing a hanbok while walking through the palace will make you feel like royalty from the Joseon era and will give you a deeper appreciation for Korean traditions.

4. Learn About Korea’s Royal History at the National Palace Museum

Located near the palace entrance, the National Palace Museum of Korea offers fascinating exhibits on Joseon Dynasty artifacts, royal customs, and palace life. If you’re interested in history, this museum is a must-visit to gain deeper insights into Korea’s royal heritage.

Admission is free, making it an excellent addition to your palace visit.

5. Explore the Beautiful Secret Garden and Surroundings

While inside the palace, don’t forget to visit the beautiful rear gardens, where you’ll find traditional pavilions, ponds, and scenic landscapes. These areas were once reserved for the royal family’s leisure and are now open to visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Additionally, Gyeongbokgung Palace is conveniently located near other cultural attractions:
• Bukchon Hanok Village – A traditional Korean village with well-preserved hanok (traditional houses).
• Insa-dong – A cultural street filled with traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream – A serene urban waterway perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Tips for Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace
1. Check the Opening Hours
• Open Wednesday to Monday (Closed on Tuesdays)
• Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM)
2. Ticket Prices
• Adults (19–64 years old): ₩3,000
• Children (7–18 years old): ₩1,500
• Free entry if wearing a hanbok!
3. Best Time to Visit
• Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most stunning scenery, with cherry blossoms or colorful fall foliage enhancing the palace’s beauty.
4. Bring Comfortable Shoes
• The palace grounds are vast, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable footwear to fully enjoy your visit.

Conclusion: A Journey Through Korea’s Past

Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace is more than just sightseeing—it’s an opportunity to step into the world of Korean royalty and experience the country’s deep-rooted history and culture. Whether you’re admiring the breathtaking architecture, watching the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, or walking through the palace in hanbok, your visit will be unforgettable.

If you’re traveling to Seoul, don’t miss the chance to explore this magnificent palace. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering a glimpse into Korea’s regal past while standing proudly in the heart of its modern capital.

So, when planning your Seoul itinerary, make sure Gyeongbokgung Palace is at the top of your list!