Gyeongbokgung Palace
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What people say
Carli Rasschaert
Available for hire
"This was built in the late 1300s as a royal palace and survived for 200 years until a fire destroyed the buildings. They have since been restored following occupation and war, to showcase the original architecture and designs.
It is best to enter through the walled gateway at the south of the grounds. Make sure to look up as you pass through the gates to see the incredible painted ceiling murals. The area just within the fortress walls is free but to enter the rest of the grounds there is a 3000 won ($2.30 USD) admission fee.
After you pass through the ticket gate, there are lockers to the left side of the square if you need to store any of your bags. From there you’ll see an open square and another passageway that leads to the throne room. These first sites are incredibly beautiful, but there is so much more to see while there.
If you can, plan at least an hour (which is still a short amount of time) to walk around. Make sure to walk to the reflecting pond and have time to enjoy some of the quieter trails away from the bustle of the palace. There are plenty of serene spaces to reflect on the ancient style of architecture and mountains in the background set against the vibrant and bustling city that is Seoul.
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Ludovica Caracciolo
Available for hire
"Gyeongbokgung was the center of power during the Joseon Dynasty until the Japanese invasion of 1592-1598. During this time, the palace was destroyed by fire and left in ashes. One fire was started by slaves trying to destroy legal status records. It was decided that Changdeokgung Palace would be rebuilt and serve as the new main royal residence.
Rent a Hanbok to make your visit to the palace even more special, you can rent and wear a hanbok for a few hours. There are many rental shops in Seoul around the palaces and hanok villages.
-Know Before You Go-
Free guided tours in English are available at 11:00, 13:00, and 15:30.
Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place at the top of every hour from 11:00 to 15:00.
-Admission-
Adult : 3,000 krw
Teenager : 1,500 krw
(If you rent a Hanbok the entrance is free)
-Hours-
March-October : 9:00-18:00
November-February : 9:00-17:00
Ticket office closes 1 hour before closing time.
Closed on Tuesdays"
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Kelsie Naugler
Available for hire
"Step through the grand entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and you'll instantly be transported to a bygone era of opulence and regal splendor. As you wander through the meticulously landscaped courtyards and passageways, envision the lives of the Korean kings and queens who once called this palace home. Gyeongbokgung stands as a testament to the country's rich history and cultural heritage, with its impressive architecture and intricate details offering a captivating journey through time. Don't miss the mesmerizing Changing of the Guard ceremony at the main gate, a spectacle that provides a glimpse into the pageantry of ancient Korea. It's not just a must-visit attraction; it's an opportunity to channel your inner royalty and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Korea's past."
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