Gwanghwamun Square: The Heart of Seoul's History
Discover Gwanghwamun Square, a historical landmark in Seoul where culture, history, and vibrant public life converge in a beautiful setting.
Gwanghwamun Square, nestled in the vibrant heart of Seoul, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in South Korea's rich history and culture. This historical landmark offers stunning views of the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace and features significant statues and memorials that honor the nation's past. With its expansive green spaces, cultural events, and proximity to other attractions, Gwanghwamun Square is the perfect starting point for any journey through Seoul.
A brief summary to Gwanghwamun Square
- 172 Sejong-daero, Jongno District, Seoul, 03154, KR
- +822-2133-7732
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best lighting for photos.
- Check the schedule for cultural events and performances that often take place in the square.
- Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, which is a short walk away.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas while soaking in the views and atmosphere.
Getting There
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Subway
To reach Gwanghwamun Square via subway, find the nearest subway station to your location. Board the Line 5 subway train (the purple line) and head towards the direction of Banghwa. Get off at Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 1). After exiting the station, walk straight for about 200 meters, and you will see Gwanghwamun Square right in front of you.
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Bus
You can take a bus to Gwanghwamun Square. Look for buses that stop at 'Gwanghwamun' or 'Sejong-daero'. Common bus numbers include 102, 171, and 601. Once you get off the bus, you will be directly at the square, which is a large open area with historical significance.
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Walking
If you are close to the area, Gwanghwamun Square is also accessible by walking. Make sure to use local maps or a navigation app to guide you to 172 Sejong-daero, Jongno District. The square is located near important landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, making it easy to find if you are nearby.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi. Simply tell the driver 'Gwanghwamun Square' or show them the address '172 Sejong-daero, Jongno District, Seoul'. The taxi will drop you off right at the entrance of the square.
Discover more about Gwanghwamun Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King Sejong the Great
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Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin
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Bigag
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Gwanghwamun Gate
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Jongno in Joseon Dynasty Well
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Dongsipjagak
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Heungnyemun Gate
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Hanok-gil (Insadong-gil)
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Seoul City Hall
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Jeonggwanheon
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Seoul Cheonggyecheon Ruins
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Geunjeongjeon
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Seokjojeon (Korean Empire History Museum)
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Yeongchumun (West Gate)
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Seoul Plaza
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
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The Story of King Sejong and 'Chungmugong' Admiral Yi
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National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
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Cheonggye Plaza
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Cheonggyecheon
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Seoul City Tour Bus
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Jogyesa Temple
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National Palace Museum of Korea
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Buddhism Central Museum
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Gwangtonggyo Bridge
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Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung hanbok rental shop
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Gongpyeong Historic Sites Museum
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Korea Tourism Organization Seoul Center
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Seoul Museum of History
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Insadong Information Center
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Essential places to dine
The Market Kitchen
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Akira Back
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Dugahun
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Korean Folk Village
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Insadong Geujip
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PyeongYang Gogitjip
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Ha-Yeon Korean Cuisine Restaurant
0.8 km
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Tteok Salon Insadong
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Experience authentic Korean rice cakes at Tteok Salon Insadong - a culinary gem in Seoul's historic Insadong district.
Yangbandaek
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Insadong gukbap
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Doma Insadong
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Sanchon
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Tteulag
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Korean Restaurant Doore
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MUGUNGHWA
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
YG Place Insa Branch
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Etro Boutique
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세령 (Korean HandMade Highclass Traditional Accessory)
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Kukje Embroidery
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Moony Gongbang Music Box (무늬공방 도자기 오르골)
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Ssamziegil
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Korean National Souvenir Center
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Insadong Vintage
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Yeon
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인사1길
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AEOL SSIGU MADANG
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Damul
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Insadong Bells and Wind Chimes Shop
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e-바다몰
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
찰스 H Charles H.
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Tender Bar
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Cobbler
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I Love Pub
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OB's Cabin
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마당쇠호프
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Tongkeun Imo
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Seochon Dokkaebi
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Ghiwon22
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Tou
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Jongnoilbeonzi
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Insadong Nogari
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The Flair Bar
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레벤호프
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Pierres Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kelin
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클럽세다도
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Gonnorhea
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Клуб
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(주)화음소문종로점
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갤럭시노래주점
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Club Lounge The Plaza Seoul
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서울코미디클럽 Seoul Comedy Club
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STARLIGHT
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A/V Take C
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Jitu
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HERO
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Giwon
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클럽레드
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슈퍼소울서울(supersoulseoul)
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