Gyeongbokgung Palace

Introduction

Construction began in 1395, three years after the Joseon dynasty was founded, and the palace served as the main royal residence for more than 200 years. It was destroyed twice, during the Japanese invasions of the 1590s and again under Japanese colonial rule in the early 20th century, and restoration has continued since 1990. The complex holds the Geunjeongjeon throne hall, the Gyeonghoeru banquet pavilion, a National Treasure set over a rectangular pond, the royal living quarters, and the National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum. The changing of the guard takes place in front of Gwanghwamun, the main gate at the north end of Seoul's central axis. Adult tickets cost KRW 3,000 and entry is free if you wear hanbok; the palace closes on Tuesdays and last entry is one hour before closing. Take metro line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, exit 5, a five-minute walk.