Attraction Guide · Historical Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

What it is, how to get there, what it costs and when to go — from the ASK KOREA attraction database.

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Overview

Quick Summary

What Is Gyeongbokgung?

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most famous royal palace in Korea.

It was originally built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty.

Today, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Korea.

Why Visit?

  • Korea's most famous palace
  • Traditional Korean architecture
  • Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
  • Beautiful photo spots
  • Hanbok experience

Who Should Visit?

  • ‍‍ First-Time Visitors
  • Photography Lovers
  • History & Culture Lovers
  • Visitors Wearing Hanbok
In Depth

Detailed Guide

How To Get There?

Recommended Subway Station

  • Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3)

Use Exit 5.

The main gate is only a short walk from the station.

Nearest Subway Station

  • Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3)
  • Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5)

Most visitors use Gyeongbokgung Station.

Admission Fee

Adults

₩3,000

Children

₩1,500

  • Visitors wearing a Hanbok can enter for free.

※ Admission fees may change.

Opening Hours

Usually

09:00 ~ 18:00

Hours vary by season.

Closed on Tuesdays.

How Long Does It Take?

Quick Visit

  • ⏰ 1 Hour

Normal Visit

  • ⏰ 2 ~ 3 Hours

With Hanbok Experience

  • ⏰ Half Day

What Should You See?

  • Geunjeongjeon Hall
  • Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
  • Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
  • Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
  • Main Palace Gate

Best Time To Visit

  • Spring (March – May)
  • Autumn (September – November)

Best Time of Day

  • Early Morning
  • Late Afternoon

Avoid weekends if possible.

Recommended Nearby Attractions

  • Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Insadong
  • National Palace Museum
  • National Folk Museum
  • Gwanghwamun Square

Most can be reached on foot.

"How do I visit Gyeongbokgung Palace?"

AI Answer:

1. Take Subway Line 3

2. Get off at Gyeongbokgung Station

3. Use Exit 5

4. Buy a ticket or wear Hanbok

5. Watch the Guard Ceremony

6. Visit Bukchon afterward

Practical

Travel Tips

Common Foreigners Mistakes

  • Arriving on Tuesday
  • Missing the Guard Ceremony
  • Not wearing Hanbok
  • Visiting during peak afternoon crowds
  • Not bringing a camera

Important Korean Words

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Admission Ticket

Entrance

Exit

Restroom

Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

Hanbok

Pro Tips

  • Visit early in the morning
  • Wear Hanbok for free admission
  • Combine with Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Combine with Insadong
  • Watch the Guard Ceremony
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes

Why Foreigners Get Confused

Many visitors think Gyeongbokgung and Gwanghwamun are different attractions.

Gwanghwamun is actually the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Some visitors also confuse Gyeongbokgung with Changdeokgung Palace.

Questions

FAQ

What is Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most famous royal palace in Korea.

It was originally built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty.

Today, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Korea.

How do I get to Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Recommended Subway Station

Use Exit 5.

The main gate is only a short walk from the station.

How much does Gyeongbokgung Palace cost?

Adults

₩3,000

Children

How long should I spend at Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Quick Visit

Normal Visit

When is the best time to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Best Time of Day

Avoid weekends if possible.

Resources

Official Resources

ASK KOREA does not sell tickets. For opening hours and ticketing around Gyeongbokgung Palace, use the official Korea tourism and city resources collected in our resources hub.

Official Korea Resources

ASK KOREA Transit