Gyeongbokgung Palace Nighttime Opening

Nighttime Opening At Gyeongbokgung Palace – Updated 2024

Special Evening Admission To Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace Nightview from Gwanghwamun
[ Gyeongbokgung Palace Nightview from Gwanghwamun ]

Gyeongbokgung Palace is normally open to the public only during the day. But you can enjoy seeing a different side of Gyeongbokgung Palace’s beauty during the night; for only a designated period. You will love this unforgettable and special experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Many locals also visit Gyeongbokgung Palace during this period.

Gwanghwamun Gate at Night in Gyeongbokgung Palace
[ Gwanghwamun Gate at Night ]

Schedule of Special Nighttime Opening

he schedule for night viewings at Gyeongbokgung Palace for Spring 2024 is yet to be announced. However, for trip planning purposes, you may consult the schedule from 2023 as a guideline.

  • Opening Period in the 1st half of 2023
    • Initial Phase: From April 5 to April 25, 2023
    • Subsequent Phase: From May 3 to May 31, 2023
    • Days Off: From April 26 to May 2, 2023, and on all Mondays & Tuesdays
  • Visiting Hours: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM (Admission closes at 8:30 PM)
  • Admission Fee: Each visitor aged between 7 and 64 years will be charged 3,000 KRW. However, admission is complimentary for those donning a Hanbok.
  • Important Notes:
    • The palace remains accessible for evening tours even during rainy conditions.
    • It’s important to note that neither strollers nor wheelchairs can be rented on-site.
    • Visitors should exercise caution after dark due to reduced visibility.
Gyeonghoeru at night in Gyeongbokgung Palace
[ Gyeonghoeru at night in Gyeongbokgung Palace ]

The palace is a feast for the eyes as it illuminates with a stunning display of lights at night. Stroll through the palace grounds, and you’ll be met with unique and breathtaking scenery that’s perfect for capturing memories that last a lifetime.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see the palace’s iconic landmarks, including the Geunjeongjeon and Gyeonghoerue, which take on a whole new dimension at night. The lack of crowds and the tranquil atmosphere add a touch of peace and serenity that’s difficult to come by in a bustling city like Seoul.

Geunjeongjeon at night in Gyeongbokgung Palace
[ Geunjeongjeon at night in Gyeongbokgung Palace ]

How To Buy Admission Tickets

  • Price: 3,000 KRW / person

Admission Tip: Hanbok wearers can enter even if the maximum number of visitors per day is exceeded. And the admission fee is free. Why don’t you rent Hanbok for your admission and cultural experience? It’s catching two birds with one stone.

Compare Hanbok Rental Services near Gyeongbokgung Palace

While exploring the Gyeongbokgung Palace during the Nighttime Opening, keep in mind that visitors can only access Gyeonghoeru, the stunning palace pavilion situated on an artificial island. Hyangwonjeong, another palace pavilion, is unfortunately closed during this time. Nonetheless, it’s still worth a visit during the day to admire the gorgeous pond and architecture.

Remember that the Nighttime Opening has limited availability, with only 2,700 one-day tickets sold and a maximum of 2 tickets per person. Also, take note that the palace is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit ahead of time to ensure that you don’t miss out on this magical and unforgettable experience.

  • Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Directions: It takes about 5 minutes by foot from exit no 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station(Seoul Subway Line No.3).
  • Phone: +82-2-3700-3900 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Royal Cultural Festival

They run various cultural programs including Royal Cultural Festivals 2022. The main idea of this year’s festival is “Today, we meet palaces.”
– Spring Festival: Apr 29 – May 7

The Royal Cultural Festival is held in 7 historical spaces including 5 Royal Palaces in Seoul

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace, which contains the founding ideology of Joseon,
  • Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most loved by kings,
  • Changgyeonggung, a space for women in the palace and the practice of filial piety for the king,
  • Deoksugung Palace, where the Korean Empire was proclaimed in 1897.
  • Gyeonghuigung Palace, the central space in the history of the late Joseon Dynasty,
  • Jongmyo Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the spirits of kings and queens
  • Sajikdan, where sacrifices were made to the gods of land and grain.
Royal Cultural Festival in Gyeongbokgung Palace_Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation
[ Royal Cultural Festival – Credit: Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation ]

This year’s programs are not open yet. IVisitKorea will let you know the detailed program information as soon as we get information about the festival.

Gyeongbokgung guard changing ceremony
[ Gyeongbokgung guard changing ceremony ]

For more information about Royal Cultural Festival, please, check the official website. http://www.royalculturefestival.org

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