The name 'Gyeongbokgung' translates to 'Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven'.
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is depicted on the Korean 10,000 won banknote.
The palace was abandoned for nearly 300 years following the 1592 Japanese invasion before being reconstructed in the 19th century.
The complex contains over 300 buildings originally, though only a fraction remain today.
The King's living quarters, Gangnyeongjeon, historically featured no roof ridge to symbolize that there is only one sun (the King) in the sky.
In the winter, the pond surrounding Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is intentionally drained or frozen to protect the structure's foundation.
The palace uses a unique heating system called 'ondol' under the floors of the residential quarters.
Gyeongbokgung Palace, constructed in 1395, served as the primary royal residence of the Joseon Dynasty. It is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built in Seoul. The site features the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea within its complex. Notable structures include Geunjeongjeon, the main throne hall used for state ceremonies and royal audiences. Gyeonghoeru Pavilion stands on an artificial island within a large pond, originally designed for royal banquets. The palace has undergone extensive restoration to reconstruct sections destroyed during the Japanese colonial period. The changing of the royal guard ceremony occurs daily at the main gate. The architecture follows traditional Joseon-era principles of feng shui and Confucian design. Visitors can observe original wooden detailing and painted dancheong patterns throughout the pavilions.
The view of the Geunjeongjeon Throne Hall framed by the main gates, or the reflection of Gyeonghoeru Pavilion in the pond.
Admission is free for visitors wearing a traditional Hanbok.
Check the official website for the daily schedule of the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony.
Bring a hat and water, as the expansive stone courtyards provide minimal shade.
Avoid arriving midday during summer, as the heat reflecting off the stone courtyards can be intense.
Closed on Tuesdays.
Avoid touching the painted wooden structures. Respectful, quiet behavior is expected near residential halls.
