Photo: Huntsmanleader · Source · CC0 · Resized and cropped for display.
A little closer
Gwanghwamun is the main gate on the south side of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Its wooden tower rises above three arched passageways, and the guard ceremony adds another reason to stop here. This page covers the gate itself; Gwanghwamun Square extends south from it and is a separate public space.
Plan your visit
- What this visit covers
- The palace gate and guard ceremony. Entry to the palace grounds follows Gyeongbokgung admission rules.1 5
- Changing of the guard · Korea time
- Regular schedule: 10:00 and 14:00, about 20 minutes. Check the official program and on-site notices for your visit date.2
- Suggested time
- 30–45 minutes · an ONLYSEOUL planning estimate, excluding waiting for the ceremony or touring the palace.
- Subway access
- Gyeongbokgung Station, Line 3, Exit 5; or Gwanghwamun Station, Line 5, Exit 26
What to see
Three arches beneath the gate tower
Start with a frontal view of the gate, then look more closely at its arches and wooden tower from a spot clear of pedestrian traffic.
Photo tips
A frontal view of the whole gate
Use an open pedestrian area in front of the gate to frame all three arches and the roof. Stay off the road and behind any event barriers.
Guards with the gate as a backdrop
From the designated viewing area, look for a frame that includes both the gate and guards. Avoid blocking other visitors’ view while taking photos.
Common questions
Is the gate the same as Gwanghwamun Square?
Gwanghwamun is the palace gate; Gwanghwamun Square is the space to its south. You can combine both in one walk, but use the specific name when looking up directions.1
Can I visit the palace afterwards?
You can continue into the palace when it is open and before last entry. Gyeongbokgung normally closes on Tuesdays, with public-holiday exceptions, so check its calendar when planning both visits.4
Sources & information check
Official information checked:
- Korea Tourism Organization · Gwanghwamun Gate
- Korea Heritage Agency · guard ceremony schedule
- Korea Heritage Agency · ceremony visitor guidance
- Royal Palaces and Tombs Center · opening calendar
- Royal Palaces and Tombs Center · admission
- Royal Palaces and Tombs Center · getting there
Suggested durations, photo compositions and routes are ONLYSEOUL editorial recommendations. Recheck official visitor information for your travel date.
For the guard ceremony, find a viewing spot before it begins and check on-site instructions. Follow designated pedestrian routes if access around the gate is restricted.
