Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung is one of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty. It was completed in 1395 in northern Seoul and served as the seat of the Joseon dynasty kings and the government.

At the end of the 16th century, the complex was destroyed by fire. Only two decades later all 7,700 rooms of the palace were rebuilt. But at the beginning of the 20th century the complex was destroyed again, this time by the Imperial Japan. After that the construction of the palace was started again.

Nowadays, the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum are located on the complex. It is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists and a favorite photo location.

Gyeongbokgung Palace gate in Seoul, South Korea.
Large colorful Korean drum on wheels with a man in traditional clothing standing beside it at Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Stone lion statue at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Large, colorful Korean drum in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Gyeongbokgung Palace gate and courtyard with visitors.
Gyeongbokgung Palace gate with many visitors.
Two people near Gyeongbokgung Palace; one taking a photo, the other on a phone call.
Gyeongbokgung Palace gate and courtyard with many visitors.
Gyeongbokgung Palace exterior with two people standing in front.
Two groups of people in traditional Korean hanbok dresses stand near a tall stone wall at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Person pushing a handcart in Gyeongbokgung Palace courtyard with many visitors.
Person walking in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace building.
Gyeongbokgung Palace gate with many people walking on a stone courtyard.

National Palace Museum of Korea with families outside.
Gyeongbokgung Palace wall and building.