Guide to Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the National Palace Museum of Korea

#TravelGuide
🏙 Gwanghwamun

• Location: Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Exit 9, Gwanghwamun Station, Subway Line 5)
• Features:
• This central square in Seoul is home to the iconic statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
• Flanked on either side of the square are the Seoul Government Complex and the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, offering a glimpse into the historical and administrative center of Seoul.
• With fountains, walking paths, seasonal exhibitions, and cultural events, the square is a beloved resting place for citizens.
• Recommended Features:
• The Sejong Story and Yi Sun-sin Story Exhibition Hall (underground) offers an interactive experience exploring the lives and achievements of these figures.
• Looking north from the square, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung Palace.

🏯 Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• History: Founded in 1395 by King Taejo, this royal palace is the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, preserving its long history and beautiful traditional architecture.
• Major Attractions:
• Gwanghwamun: The main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. After three reconstructions, it has become a representative symbol of Seoul.
• Geunjeongjeon: The central hall where the king held his coronation and major state ceremonies.
• Gyeonghoeru: A pavilion built over a pond, it was used for banquets during the Joseon Dynasty.
• Hyangwonjeong: A Joseon-style garden with a beautiful pond and pavilion. 📍 Information:
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (subject to seasonal variation)
• Closed: Every Tuesday
• Admission: 3,000 won for adults (free for those 24 and under and 65 and over)
• Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony: A reenactment of a traditional ceremony (daily at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, except Tuesdays)

🏛 National Palace Museum of Korea

• Location: Inside Gyeongbokgung Palace (next to Yeongchumun, West Gate)
📌 Features:
• This museum specializes in exhibiting artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire.
• Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including royal rituals, lifestyle, documentary culture, and science and technology, making it a great complement to your palace tour. 📍Recommended Exhibitions:
• Royal Seals of Kings and Queens, ceremonial tools used in wedding ceremonies and ancestral rites
• Royal attire and household items
• Exhibitions related to the Korean Empire (traces of the Emperor's coronation and modernization)
📌Information:
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Open until 9:00 PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays)
• Closed: Every Monday
• Admission: Free

🚶 Recommended Route
Gwanghwamun Square → Visit the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin → Explore the exhibition halls
Enter Gwanghwamun → Stroll around Geunjeongjeon Hall at Gyeongbokgung Palace → Gyeonghoeru Pavilion → Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
Proceed to the west exit of Yeongchumun Gate at Gyeongbokgung Palace → Visit the National Palace Museum of Korea
After your visit, take a stroll through Samcheong-dong or Seochon and visit a cafe.

👉 This route allows you to experience Seoul's history, Joseon palace culture, and royal heritage all in one day.

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