Gyeongbokgung Palace (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
What makes it 95% Couple-Friendly: Couples may wear matching hanbok for free entry, pose by ponds, join evening or starlight tours under palace lights, and watch the guard show together, creating a memorable, romantic outing.
Positives:
- Cultural immersion: Wearing hanbok and joining free guided tours creates a shared heritage experience.
- Photogenic backdrops: Hyangwonjeong Pond and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion offer iconic couple photos.
Challenges:
- Timed events: Ceremonies and tours run on fixed schedules; check times to avoid missing them.
- Walking distances: Palace grounds are large with uneven paths; wear comfortable shoes.
What is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
- A 14th-century royal palace complex in central Seoul that served as the main seat of the Joseon Dynasty
- An expansive ensemble of traditional Korean architecture, including Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Throne Hall, and meticulously arranged courtyards and pavilions
- A cultural landmark housing the National Palace Museum of Korea and landscaped gardens that exemplify Korean palace design
What is so special about Gyeongbokgung Palace for couple trip?
- See the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony in authentic costumes.
- Share a hanbok rental and photoshoot inside the palace.
- Join free English tours for rich storytelling.
- Enjoy a special night viewing under palace lights in spring.
- Explore adjacent museums with air-conditioned galleries.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to see main halls, catch the guard ceremony, and join a free guided tour.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Gyeongbokgung Palace
Royal Guard Changing Ceremony:
Witness Joseon-era gate duty reenacted by costumed guards at Gwanghwamun Gate.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early for a front-row view; ceremony starts at 10:00 and 14:00.
Couple Hanbok Rental & Photoshoot:
Rent matching hanbok and enter the palace for free, then capture K-Drama–style photos.
Tip: Book hanbok in advance to secure your preferred style; bring a memory card.
Free English Guided Tour:
Join a 90-minute storytelling walk at 11:00, 13:30, or 15:30 (closed Tuesdays).
Tip: Meet at the palace information center; groups under 10 need no reservation.
Night Viewing of the Palace:
Stroll softly lit grounds during Spring Night Opening (May 8–June 15, 19:00–21:30).
Tip: Reserve KRW 3,000 tickets online; hanbok wearers enter free after 18:30.
Explore National Palace Museum:
Browse royal artifacts in air-conditioned galleries next to the palace.
Tip: Use your palace ticket for free entry; join English tours at 11:00 or 14:30.
When is the best time to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms around Hyangwonjeong Pond and night openings in May. In autumn, see golden ginkgo leaves. Bring water in summer and warm layers in winter.
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Reviews of Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
Pedro Vera Obrador
Very beautiful and big complex, it can take hours to explore everything. 3000 won per adult, you can buy the ticket at the vending machine or also at the desks. Change of guards a couple of times every day.
Eren Korkmaz
It is a key attraction in Seoul for sure, and that is why it is full with tourists in traditional Korean attires for photo ops. The palace itself can be seen in 1 hour or so, but the garden is simply huge. So you might consider to dedicate some buffer time if you want to explore the whole landmark. There are free lockers available which was very practical to leave all the burden and walk around ...
Lissy “LuLu” Webber
Amazing! This place is closed on Tuesdays. Ceremonies happen 1000 and 1400. I would recommend to rent a traditional outfit and take cute pics. (If you are wearing the clothing it’s a free entry.) If you buy tickets it has to be with a card. Watching the traditional ceremony was definitely worth the visit and there is so many amazing buildings and history.
Nickola Wilson-Chung (Wilson)
Wonderful palace that needs to be seen in person. The beautiful architecture and designs are amazing. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes because the palace grounds are very spread out. Highly recommend seeing this historic place if you're able to visit Seoul, Korea.
Ed Tom
A must in Seoul ! Other early in the morning to avoid crowd! Dress up in Korean costume and you get in for free! Plan to be there for 2 hours to see all the chambers and the garden!!! Yes, it is cheesy to dress up in costumes but everyone es to to be a princess! Yes, I was tempted but decided to dress up modern to compare with the past and be unique rather than blend in..
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace entry (2 adults) | KRW 6,000 |
| Hanbok rental (4 hours) | KRW 30,000 |
| Spring night viewing (2 tickets) | KRW 6,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 42,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Combine tickets: Rent hanbok to waive the palace fee and skip the ticket line.
- Early arrival: Arrive 30 minutes before the guard ceremony for the best viewing spots.
- Use free guides: Join the English guided tour to save time and learn hidden stories.
Map of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Gyeongbokgung Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-3700-3900Average price
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