Introduction to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Korea

 

 

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Historical Overview
• Key Attractions
• Cultural Sites
• Scenic Features
• Visitor Information
• Conclusion

Introduction

Gyeongbokgung Palace, meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” was established in 1395 as the main royal residence of the Joseon dynasty and is recognized as Seoul’s most iconic historical site.

Historical Overview

The palace was originally built by King Taejo and expanded under King Sejong (1418–1450), during which Hangul was created within its grounds.

It was destroyed by fire during the Imjin War in 1592 and remained in ruins for nearly 270 years until restoration began under King Gojong in 1865.

Many buildings were demolished during Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945), but extensive reconstruction efforts have been underway since the 1980s and are projected to continue until 2045.

Key Attractions

Gwanghwamun Gate: The grand south gate, originally built in 1395, rebuilt in 1865, and restored to its original position in 2010.

Geunjeongjeon Hall: The throne hall used for state ceremonies, first completed in 1395 and reconstructed in 1867.

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion: A lakeside banquet hall built on an artificial island with 35 rooms, celebrated for its elegant design and symbolic numerology.

Cultural Sites

National Palace Museum of Korea: Located on the palace grounds, this modern museum displays royal artifacts and treasures from the Joseon dynasty.

National Folk Museum of Korea: Showcasing traditional Korean life and customs, admission is free for visitors wearing hanbok.

Scenic Features

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion & Bridge: A picturesque pavilion set on a small pond, connected by the restored wooden Chwihyanggyo Bridge to the palace grounds.

Amisan Garden: A landscaped hill built from soil excavated during pond construction, featuring historic chimneys designated as cultural treasures.

Visitor Information

Item	Details
Opening Hours	March–May & September–October: 09:00–18:00 (last entry 17:00); June–August: 09:00–18:30; November–February: 09:00–17:00. Closed on Tuesdays.
Admission Fee	Adults (19–64): ₩3,000; Children (7–18): ₩1,500; Free for hanbok wearers and children under 6.
Changing of the Guard	Daily at 10:00 and 14:00 (except Tuesdays), a 20-minute ceremony in front of Gwanghwamun Gate.
Location & Access	Seoul Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5); served by multiple bus routes.
Recommended Visit Time	Approximately 2–3 hours to explore the main halls, museums, and gardens.

Conclusion

Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a vivid window into Korea’s royal past, combining architectural grandeur, cultural ceremonies, and scenic beauty.

Whether adorning traditional hanbok for free entry or witnessing the colorful guard-changing ceremony, foreign visitors will find an enriching experience at this “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.”