What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Kids like the colorful drum ceremony and can run safely on the fenced plaza, yet there are no hands-on exhibits or playgrounds and the whole visit ends in 30 min, so interest may fade fast.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for the guard ceremony, short wall walk, photos, and market snacks without tiring kids.
Sungnyemun Guard Ceremony:
Watch soldiers in Joseon-era uniforms perform a 20-minute opening and closing ritual.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early; center plaza seats give best views for kids.
Gate Photo Spot:
Pose under the massive stone arch of Korea’s first national gate.
Tip: Step back on the flat plaza for a full gate view; use a wide-angle lens if possible.
Short City Wall Walk:
Stroll the level 1.8 km section of the Seoul City Wall next to the gate.
Tip: Bring water and a stroller for kids under 7; skip if children get tired.
Namdaemun Market Snacks:
Sample hotteok, fish-shaped waffles, and other street treats.
Tip: Share small portions so kids can try multiple flavors.

Si M
also known as Namdaemun (“Great South Gate”), is one of the historic Eight Gates in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, South Korea. Originally built in 1398 during the Joseon Dynasty, it served as the main southern gate to the capital city. Key points: • It’s designated as National Treasure No. 1 of South Korea. • The gate features traditional wooden architecture atop a stone base. • It was severely dam...
Isabel Cristina Perez Verona
Try to match the change of guard!!! It is totally worth it, we saw it by chance and then the guards explain how the ceremony was done in the older times and they are super nice if you want to take a photo
THE EXPLORER
I always go to this gate every time we visit Korea. I have been coming here for 40 years and I am always impressed that these monuments to Seoul’s past have been maintained for all to see. I always take a selfie with the front guard and once he even said something to me in English.
Mike M.
One of 8 gates that were along the fortress wall around Seoul during the Joseon dynasty. This is the south gate, and it is conveniently located between City Hall and Seoul Station (you can see both from the gate), so I recommend stopping by if you're in the neighborhood. The old architecture contrasted with the modern buildings is really interesting. The gate can be viewed from the street 24/7. Ho...
Jo Lee
Surrounded by all the high rise modern buildings, this is a true heritage in the Seoul city center. As one of the 8 gates in the fortress wall of Seoul, it's not surprise that the architecture looks grand, solid and sophisticated. As you walk through the gate, you can't help but admire the ceiling and the roof crafting. Too bad can't walk up to enjoy the view from above. Toilet available within t...
Spring and fall offer mild weather. Summer days are hot with little shade—visit early. In winter, dress in layers and check guard ceremony times as schedule can change.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guard Ceremony admission | KRW 0 |
| Stroller rental at MESA mall | KRW 0 |
| Street snacks at Namdaemun Market | KRW 10,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 10,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 40 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
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