Gwanghwamun Square

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Gwanghwamun Square

Published Date : Nov 13, 2015 / Edited Date : Jul 29, 2024

King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty moved the capital to Hanyang in 1394 and built Gyeongbokgung Palace, the official residence of the Joseon Dynasty. In addition, on both sides of the road in front of the palace’s main gate, the Street of Six Ministries, including Uijeongbu (State Council), was built. It was the best road in Hanyang. In 2009, that road opened again. Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggye Plaza were built. The square is mostly “a square that restores the history of Gwanghwamun,” “a square that recreates the scenery of the Street of the Six Ministries,” “an emblematic square of Korea,” “an urban culture square where citizens mingle,” “a square in the city center,” and “a connection to the Cheonggyecheon Stream.” It functions as a space for history, culture, and relaxation. The focal point of this emblematic square in Korea is the statue of King Sejong the Great. The “downtown square” around the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin is also a space appreciated by city dwellers. In addition, artificial ponds and fountains are installed to cool off people from the summer heat. Also, the Haechi statue and Grass Plaza, which are symbols of Seoul, were also created.

Phone: +82-2-120

Website: View Website

Website Language: KOR

Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours a day, throughout the year, as a city square

Holidays: Open year-around

Days of Operation: Monday ~ Sunday

Facilities for the Disabled: Accessible Restrooms; Accessible Pathways

Important: The Story of King Sejong
The Story of King Sejong Exhibition Hall can be accessed through the entrance on the side of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, KT Hall, and behind the statue of King Sejong the Great. It is a spacious and cozy exhibition space that is located underground. You can see the achievements of King Sejong the Great. The storytelling structure of the exhibition is enhanced by the touch-screen functions available.

Fee: Free admission

Address: 03172 B 175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea (세종로, 세종이야기)

Transportation: Subway Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2 (235m on foot, 5-minute walk)

See map

Directions Details

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Tripadvisor Reviews

Traveler Rating Rating:4.0 (Based on 748 Traveler)

Latest 5 reviews of Gwanghwamun Square

Massive statues

Only worth visiting here if you’re looking to hang at the square or where the river is, located literally as you exist the main place & cross the road. Also I noticed a small Olive Young (beauty...

Lengmui852 2024-11-24
Beautiful Square to Visit

After passing by this Square while riding the bus, I decided to get off here and explore. As most reviewers are saying, it has two huge statues of famous Korean men, perfect background for taking...

LolaGo1 2024-05-03
Very impressive

This is a large and impressive square in central Seoul. There are two big statues in the pedestrianised area which runs for a long stretch besides various impressive sights. A must see in central...

NICHOLAS T 2024-04-07
Pedestrian walkway with historical value

Nice stretch of a walkway flanked by 2 important statues. The one invented the Korean alphabet. While the other one is a sort of politics leader and war hero. Towards the end is another important...

doctorfoxtrot 2023-12-08
Very nice. Popular for local families.

Uptown, to explore Gwanghwamum Square, which is another major ‘spot’ for families to gather, with water features; an outdoor library; seating for people watching; etc. Pretty cool.

normanp311 2023-10-20
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