Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of five place in Seoul and arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all five palaces. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the “Northern Palace” because it is the furthest north when compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeongheegung (Western Palace).

Every day, there will be reenactment of Ceremony of Gate Guard Change shown to the visitors. Palace Gate Guards from the Joseon period were responsible for guarding the gates of the city and the palace in which the king and royal families resided. They followed a strict produre in opening and closing gates as well as changing shifts to protect the royal court and the nation as a whole. Having the opportunity to witness to reenactment was really bring us back to the past era.

Watching the reenactment reminded me of the drama’s of the past eras. The cast dressed and make-up to look like those who live in those eras.

The palace complex was really huge. The architectural of each buildings was magnificient with carvings and elements. However, I find that the overall palace compound is too dry and hard, majority covered by stones and green landscaping only be found at certain area.

Facts about the palace

• Closed every Tuesday
• Operating hours
  • March to October → 9am – 6pm
  • November to February → 9am – 5pm
• admission fee → krw 3,000 (adult) , krw 1,500 (youth 7 to 18 years), below 6 years free
• The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located east within Hyangwonjeong

How to go there

The palace is easily reached by subway at Gyeongbokgung Station line 3 via exit 5.