Gyeongbokgung Palace

Founded in 1395 as the first palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung was destroyed during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and left in ruins for 270 years before being rebuilt under King Gojong in 1867. Spanning 430,000㎡, it's remarkable that a palace of this scale sits right in the center of modern Seoul — with landmarks like Geunjeongjeon (the throne hall), Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pond. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony takes place daily at 10:00 and 14:00 at Gwanghwamun Gate (closed Tuesdays). Wearing a hanbok gets you free admission, and rental shops cluster right outside the palace in the Seochon and Bukchon neighborhoods — typically 15,000-20,000 KRW for 2 hours. Suggested route: Gwanghwamun → Geunjeongjeon → Gyeonghoeru → Amisan Chimneys (hidden photo spot) → Hyangwonjeong → exit through the north gate and walk into Bukchon Hanok Village. Budget at least 2 hours. Late afternoon visits avoid the tour bus crowds.