Palaces

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Gyeongbokgung


Address	22 Sajik-dong Jongno-gu SEOUL

Tel	02-3700-3900

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Admission :
3,000 won adults, 1,500 won children
Hours of Operation :
Mar~Oct:09~18
Nov~Feb:09~17
Closed Tuesdays
Web Page: www.royalpalace.go.kr

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung remained the core nucleus of autocratic rule through much of the Joseon period. Unlike other palaces in Seoul the rectangular area is flanked by large entry gates on all four sides, and three granite walkways extend from the front entry gate, or Geunjeongmun, to Geunjeongjeon, the main hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was here where the head of state conducted important matters, received foreign envoys, and assembled his court in royal rituals. Enthronements also took place here. Look inside the hall and you’ll see the king’s throne, crowned by a canopy and an intricate, latticed ceiling, which includes a carving of two golden dragons in the clouds, a symbol of royalty. Walk further into the palace grounds and head west towards Gyeonghoeru, or the Pavilion of Joyous Meeting. The elevated pavilion, buttressed by stone columns floats on a man-made lake, and its granite railings feature carved renditions of the Bulgasari, a mythological creature known to consume fire. The two-story pavilion may be a familiar sight as it is inscribed on the back of the 10,000 won note. As you head north be sure to check out the Hyangwonjeong, a hexagonal two-story pavilion located on a lotus pond at the end of a wooden bridge. Constructed in 1873, the charming Hyangwonjeong is located on an island and is a relatively latecomer to the palace grounds. Other points of interest in Gyeongbokgung include the Amisan, a rear garden to the queen’s former residence decorated with traditional stone structures, unusual brick chimneys and a bed of colorful flora.