Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, its grand gates and throne hall rebuilt after being destroyed during Japanese occupation, now hosting a popular changing-of-the-guard ceremony.

Related: Summer Palace Tours: Standard Entry or Guided Tour?

Top-Rated Gyeongbokgung Palace Tours & Tickets

Standard Entry

Standard entry lets you explore the palace grounds independently, including the throne hall and the picturesque Gyeonghoeru Pavilion over its lotus pond.

Guided Tour with Hanbok Rental

A guided tour with hanbok rental adds both historical context from a live guide and the chance to wear traditional Korean dress, which also grants free palace entry.

Is Renting a Hanbok Worth It?

Wearing a hanbok is both a fun photo opportunity and a practical discount, since hanbok-wearers get free entry – a popular and worthwhile choice for most visitors, especially with a guide explaining the palace’s history.

Book Seoul Tours & Tickets

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Private DMZ Tour with North Korean Defector + N Korean Lunch

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Royal Seoul Cooking Class in a 100-Year-Old Hanok

Royal Seoul Cooking Class in a 100-Year-Old Hanok

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From USD 108.43
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Seoul Vegan & Vegetarian Gwangjang Market Food Tour (11 Tastings)

Seoul Vegan & Vegetarian Gwangjang Market Food Tour (11 Tastings)

★ 5.0 (158)
From USD 99
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Make Traditional Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli)

Make Traditional Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli)

★ 5.0 (99)
From USD 79.77
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Traditional Korean 6-Dish Cooking Class + Hidden Alley Tour Seoul

Traditional Korean 6-Dish Cooking Class + Hidden Alley Tour Seoul

★ 5.0 (97)
From USD 90
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DMZ 2nd Tunnel, Pocheon Sky Bridge & Waterfall Tour from Seoul

DMZ 2nd Tunnel, Pocheon Sky Bridge & Waterfall Tour from Seoul

★ 5.0 (95)
From USD 107
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Live pricing and availability are pulled directly from Viator.

Practical Tips

  • Wearing a hanbok grants free entry to the palace, making the rental cost partly offset.
  • The changing-of-the-guard ceremony happens several times daily – check the schedule to catch it.
  • The National Folk Museum sits within the palace grounds and is included with entry.

FAQ

Is entry free if I wear a hanbok?
Yes, wearing traditional Korean hanbok grants free entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How long does a Gyeongbokgung visit take?
About two hours covers the main halls and grounds.

Final Thoughts

Gyeongbokgung is Seoul’s most essential palace visit – the hanbok rental adds a memorable, cost-offsetting twist to the experience.

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