Gyeonghuigung Palace

Gyeonghuigung Palace was constructed as a detached royal villa, where kings of the Jeseon Dynasty stayed during their daily excursions. It is one of the Palaces that make up the Grand Five Palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty. Its construction began in 1617 and was completed in 1623. Gyeonghuigung Palace was originally composed of 100 units of large and small structures. Gyeonghuigung like many palaces in Korea fell victim to disaster during the Japanese occupation. The Japanese destroyed the palace so that they could build a school for Japanese citizens.

In 1980 the old site of Gyeonghuigung Palace was designated a historic site. The Seoul Metropolitan Government excavated the old site to restore its major structures. Due to major urban growth in the area and decades of neglect, the government was only able to reconstruct about 33% of the former Palace. In 2002 this site officially opened its doors to the public.

After entering through the main Heunghwamun gate you can see the Sungjeongmun gate and the steps leading up to the palace. After heading up the steps you arrive into the courtyard. Here you can see Sungjeongjeon. It is the main hall of Gyeonghuigung Palace. Here, kings met with their subjects and arranged official ceremonies. Behind Sungjeongjeon is Jajeongjeon, the king’s living quarters. Also you can find Geumcheongyo bridge, which was part of the original palace in front of the Seoul Museum of History located on the old grounds of Gyeonghuigung Palace.  It was buried by the Imperial Japanese army but restored in 2001.

This palace is very small compared to the other Five Palaces. It is recommended that you also visit the Seoul Museum of history located nearby.

Admission / Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 09:00 – 18:00
Weekends and holidays: 10:00 – 18:00
Closed on Mondays and January 1st.

Entry to this palace is free.

How to get to Gyeonghuigung Palace:
The Palace is located near 5 subway stops.
Line 5 exit 7 at Gwanghwamun Station
Line 5 exit 4 at Seodaemun Station
Line 3 exit 6 at Gyeongbokgung Station
Line 2 exit 12 at City Hall Station
Line 1 exit 3 at City Hall Station
Please click on the map below for the location of the palace

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