Spring in Seoul, a trip to Gyeongbok Palace
On April 6, 2025, we went on a trip to Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul, where the cherry blossoms had begun to bloom. This outing, which involved dragging my husband who was suffering from a hangover, was a special journey that combined delicious bread and lunch. Although we couldn’t visit the Chinese restaurant ‘Doryang’ that we had originally planned due to a reservation cancellation, we enjoyed the spring of Seoul by exploring Gyeongbok Palace instead.
A Trip to Gyeongbok Palace: Feeling the Spring Ambiance
We visited Gyeongbok Palace to welcome the spring of Seoul. We entered through the East Gate (inside the entrance to the National Folk Museum of Korea), and the adult admission fee is 3,000 won, but it’s free if you wear Hanbok. It was impressive to see many foreign tourists dressed in beautiful Hanbok enjoying the beauty of Gyeongbok Palace.
Gyeongbok Palace is the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, founded in 1395 during the 4th year of King Taejo’s reign, and it stands out for its grandeur and historical value. At the time of our visit, the cherry blossoms were about 20-30% in bloom, but they were expected to reach their peak this weekend. The beautiful pine trees and schools of carp in the ponds scattered throughout the palace added to the spring ambiance.
Exploring the Main Halls of Gyeongbok Palace
National Folk Museum of Korea
The National Folk Museum of Korea, which is open to the public for free, is uniquely situated within the palace grounds despite the Joseon Dynasty’s policy of prioritizing Confucianism over Buddhism. Although it is sometimes criticized for being less practical than its size suggests, it is a valuable space where we can glimpse the lifestyle and culture of our people through various exhibitions.
Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
Located in the northern rear garden of Gyeongbok Palace, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion is a beautiful two-story hexagonal wooden pavilion that means ‘fragrance travels far.’ It is built on an island in the middle of a pond, adding to its charm. Although we couldn’t get close, we could feel its beauty even from a distance.
Geoncheonggung Palace
Geoncheonggung Palace, which served as the residence of King Gojong and Queen Min, is also a place marked by the sorrow of the Eulmi Incident in 1895. It is known as the first place in Korea to have electricity, and it is a place where you can feel the traces of history along with its beautiful architecture. The blooming plum blossoms added to the beauty of Geoncheonggung Palace.
Jiphyejeon
Jiphyejeon, which was King Gojong’s study, is an exotic building following Chinese architectural styles. Although we had to make do with a zoomed-in photo for my husband who had trouble walking, its unique exterior was impressive.
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which was used for banquets and receiving foreign envoys during the Joseon Dynasty, is an important pavilion equivalent to the Blue House’s Yeongbin-gwan today. Designated as National Treasure No. 224, its beautiful and majestic appearance amazed visitors. Although partially covered by a screen, we could feel its grandeur in the open space.
Geunjeongjeon Hall
Geunjeongjeon Hall, where the king’s enthronement ceremonies and past civil service examinations were held, is the central hall of Gyeongbok Palace. On the day of our visit, it was crowded with numerous foreign tourists, but thanks to the spaciousness of Gyeongbok Palace, we were able to look around relatively leisurely. Despite its faded colors, it was a popular photo spot.
Following our visit to Jongmyo Shrine last year, we decided to explore Gyeongbok Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Changgyeonggung Palace this year. Gyeongbok Palace, our first visit to welcome ‘Seoul의 봄’, has undergone much repair over the years and offered a different sentiment than before. If you have enough time, we recommend going on a palace tour to fully enjoy the spring of Seoul.
Gyeongbok Palace
Seoul Special City Jongno District Sajik-ro 161 Gyeongbok Palace
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