The 12.23 Fountain was designed with 365 water jets to represent the number of days in a year.
King Sejong’s statue stands 6.2 meters tall, chosen to commemorate the year he ascended the throne.
The square is built directly above the ruins of the Uijeongbu, the highest government administrative organ during the Joseon Dynasty.
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's statue was cast using 3.5 tons of bronze and includes a fountain base built to mimic the shape of a turtle ship.
The street name Sejong-daero serves as the traditional 'Six Ministries Street' that historically led to the royal palace.
Portions of the underground exhibition space are dedicated to the history of the King Sejong's creation of the Hangul alphabet.
Gwanghwamun Square serves as the primary public thoroughfare in central Seoul, situated directly in front of the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. The square features monumental bronze statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, both of whom played foundational roles in Korean history. Redesigned in 2022 to expand pedestrian zones and green spaces, the area incorporates a water feature known as the 12.23 Fountain. The site functions as a historical axis connecting the Joseon Dynasty royal architecture to the modern cityscape of Jongno District. Beneath the square, the Sejong Story and Chungmugong Story underground exhibition halls house displays regarding the invention of the Hangul script and historical naval battles. The square is built over a former royal administrative district and contains reclaimed archaeological ruins within its modern infrastructure. As of June 2026, it remains the central venue for state-level ceremonies, cultural festivals, and public gatherings.
The elevated viewing platform near the Sejong the Great statue looking north toward the Gwanghwamun Gate and the mountains beyond.
Explore the underground exhibition halls if the weather is inclement, as they provide temperature-controlled access to historical displays.
Visit the 'History Walk' section on the side of the square to view excavated artifacts from the Joseon era.
Check the official Seoul Metropolitan Government website for scheduled protest activity, as the square is the primary site for public demonstrations.
Avoid visiting during large-scale public demonstrations if you prefer a quiet experience, as the square can become heavily congested and loud.
Maintain a respectful demeanor during political protests or commemorative ceremonies; do not climb on the base of the statues.
