Walking with Kings: A Stroll Through Gwanghwamun Square

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Gwanghwamun Square is one of those places where modern Seoul meets its royal past — and you feel it the moment you step into the open plaza, flanked by traffic, tradition, and towering mountains in the distance. I came here expecting a quick photo stop, but ended up walking slowly, reading the plaques, and just soaking in the vibe of the city’s heartbeat.

The square is home to two iconic statues — King Sejong the Great (the inventor of Hangul) and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, both standing proud and powerful with the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace just beyond. The square’s recent revamp has made it more pedestrian-friendly, with green spaces, water features, and places to sit and people-watch.

What I loved most? That perfect moment when you look up and see Bugaksan Mountain behind the palace — it’s history, nature, and city energy all colliding in one powerful view.

Travel Tips and How to Get There:
• Best time to visit:
• Morning or golden hour in the late afternoon for beautiful light and fewer crowds
• What to bring: A camera, water, maybe a light snack to enjoy at the benches
• Recommended experiences:
• Take photos with the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi
• Walk toward Gyeongbokgung Palace for a seamless cultural stroll
• Visit the underground exhibition hall beneath King Sejong’s statue for a quick but fun history lesson
• Good for: History fans, city explorers, casual walkers, photographers
• Vibe: Open, grand, reflective, proudly Korean

How to Get There:
• By subway:
• Take Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2
• You’ll walk straight into the square from the exit
• By foot:
• It’s also walkable from City Hall or Gyeongbokgung Palace if you’re exploring the area
• Pro tip: Combine this with a visit to the palace, Cheonggyecheon stream, or nearby museums for a full cultural day